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Corticosteroids - topical (skin), nose, and eyes - Management
How long can I prescribe topical corticosteroids for?
- The length of treatment depends on the condition being treated.
- Generally, potent topical corticosteroids should not be used regularly for more than 7 days. If treatment is indicated for longer than 7 days, consider seeking specialist advice.
- Supervise repeat prescriptions for topical corticosteroids and review the person regularly (every 6–12 months, depending on the individual, their condition, and the potency of the topical corticosteroid).
- If the symptoms do not improve after 3–7 days, reassess the condition and consider other potential causes:
- Infection — such as impetigo, herpes simplex, or tinea corporis, which can be worsened by topical corticosteroids. Investigate, and treat with the appropriate anti-infective drug.
- Hypersensitivity reaction — consider switching to a corticosteroid with a different active ingredient or refer the person to a dermatologist if there is any doubt as to the reason for the reaction.
- Non-adherence — this could be due to concerns about the safety of steroids. Reassure the person that adverse effects are rare when topical steroids are applied thinly and for a short period.
- Tolerance — consider switching to another topical corticosteroid of the same potency.
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