Steroids

Question 1

Rank topical steroids in terms of potency giving brands/generic?

Answer 1

MILD - hydrocortisone
MODERATE - Betnovate RD and Eumovate (clobetasone butyrate)
POTENT - Beclometasone dipropionate 0.025%
Betamethasone valerate 0.1% (Betnovate)
Mometasone furoate (Elocon)
VERY POTENT - Clobetasol propionate (Dermovate)

Question 2

Which conditions are topical steroids used to treat?

Answer 2

eczema, contact dermatitis, insect bites (NOT recommended for acne)

Question 3

OTC preparations - hydrocortisone indications?

duration of treatment and excluded patient groups for OTC?

Answer 3

allergic contact dermatitis, irritant dermatitis, insect bite reactions and mild to moderate eczema.
Maximum 1 week treatment - 1-2 times daily. Not on face, genital region or broken/infected skin. Not for children under 10 or pregnant women.