People using topical steroid creams for long periods of time to treat conditions like eczma or psoraisis can experience skin withdrawal symptoms including burning and redness, the government body that regulates medicines and healthcare products has warned.
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Authority (MHRA) said that people who experience redness or burning after they have stopped using topical corticosteroid creams should seek advice from their healthcare professional before using these products again.
Healthcare professionals are also being advised to prescribe only the minimum potency needed to treat the condition.
The MHRA said that it is not unusual for skin conditions to flare up or return shortly after stopping topical treatments. However, very infrequently, a severe type of topical steroid withdrawal reaction can occur, known as “red skin syndrome” or “topical steroid addiction”.
Other signs include burning or stinging, intense itching, peeling of the skin, or oozing open sores. Side-effects can occur in the days or weeks after stopping treatment, even after just two months of continuous treatment in some cases.
Managing skin conditions
CPD: Lesions plan – managing the skin condition hidradenitis suppurativa
Alison Cave, chief safety officer of the MHRA, said: “When used correctly, topical corticosteroids are a safe and effective treatment for conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. However, a withdrawal reaction following long-term use of these products can lead to skin redness and a burning sensation worse than the original skin condition. These reactions can be hard to distinguish from the original skin condition.
“Patients should follow their healthcare professional’s advice on where, how often and for how long to use topical corticosteroids. Patients experiencing symptoms after stopping their topical steroid treatment should contact a healthcare professional for guidance.”
It advised healthcare professionals to:
- prescribe the lowest potency of topical corticosteroid needed to effectively treat the skin disorder
- consider reducing the strength or frequency of application gradually if topical corticosteroids have been used for a prolonged time
- make sure patients know how to use it safely and effectively, especially on sensitive areas
Sign up to our weekly round-up of HR news and guidance
Receive the Personnel Today Direct e-newsletter every Wednesday
Both patients and health professionals are urged report all suspected adverse drug reactions to the Yellow Card scheme, including after discontinuation of topical corticosteroids.
