Steriod-based creams may affect skin, doctors warn

Hyderabad: The Indian Association of Dermatologists, Venereologists and Leprologists has recommended that topical steroids be brought under the provisions of schedule H drugs to avoid misuse. This follows the increase in cases of facial damage through the use of topical steroids.

Currently, these steroid-based drugs are sold over the counter but dermatologists insist that they must now only be sold against prescription. The Drugs Controller General of India has taken up this issue with the health ministry due to the evidence presented by the association of its misuse.

A series of studies in the last six years has shown that 60 per cent of patients are victims of ster-oids which damage their facial skin. Dr G.V. Murthy, skin specialist, said, “In many cases we have found that these medicines were used to cure pimples or dark patches on the face.”

Many patients have got used to using steroid laden ointments such as Betnovate C and N, Paderm Plus, Skinlite, Melacare, which are sold without prescription.
The association has listed these drugs on its websites and asked patients to be careful while using them.

Dr G Madhuri, dermatologist, explained, “These medicines turn the skin thinner and give rise to steroid dependence. They increase the pimples and rashes on the face. Other serious complications like unwanted hair growth on face in females and perioral dermatitis have also been observed.’’

Steroid atrophy, also called corticosteroidinduced dermal atrophy, can occur soon after using steriod based creams. The risk depends on the strength of the steroid, duration of application and the site it is applied.