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Before using corticosteroids (topical - moderate)
Before using corticosteroids (topical - moderate) make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:
- If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
- If you have any areas of infected skin.
- If you suffer from acne rosacea or acne vulgaris.
- If you suffer from perioral dermatitis (skin rash around the mouth).
How to use corticosteroids (topical - moderate)
- Apply as directed by your doctor, usually not more than twice daily.
- Spread thinly, using the specified number of fingertip units.
- A fingertip unit is the amount of topical steroid that is squeezed out from a standard tube along an adults fingertip.
Getting the most from your treatment
- Corticosteroids (topical - moderate) should not be used on broken or infected skin including cold sores, acne rosacea, chickenpox, ringworm, thrush or athlete's foot.
- If treating eczema, the use of emollients is very important. Emollients are creams, ointments and lotions which 'oil' the skin to keep it supple and moist.
- Reducing the presence of the house dust mite by regularly vacuuming carpets, damp dusting and airing bed linen may help.
Can corticosteroids (topical - moderate) cause problems
Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Side effects with corticosteroids (topical - moderate) are rare, although thinning of the skin may occur on prolonged use. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if the treated area appears to be getting worse.
| Common side-effects - these affect less than 1 in 10 people who take this medicine | What can I do if I experience this |
| Burning sensation and itching | Speak to your doctor if this persists |
How to store corticosteroids (topical - moderate)
- Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
- Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
Important information about all medicines
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References
- British National Formulary; 54th Edition (September 2007) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London (link to current BNF).
- National Eczema Society
- Summary of Product Characteristics, Betnovate® RD Cream, GlaxoSmithKline UK, electronic Medicines Compendium. Text revised February 2005, accessed December 2007.
| © EMIS 2008 | DocID: 3265 | DocRef: dils2159 | Last Reviewed: 12 Dec 2007 | Version: 22 |