Tag: Steroid safety

According to the National Eczema Association, topical corticosteroids have been a mainstay for eczema treatment for over 60 years. To determine what steroids are safe for eczema, one must understand that safety is relative and depends on the medication's potency, the area of application, and the patient's age. Safe use involves a balanced approach under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

In 2020, millions of prescriptions were written for triamcinolone and hydrocortisone in the U.S. alone for inflammatory skin conditions, highlighting their widespread use. When it comes to determining which is safer, triamcinolone or hydrocortisone, the answer depends largely on the severity of the condition, location of use, and a patient's individual risk factors.

Studies show that annually, around 3.8% of the population receives oral glucocorticoid steroids, with 12.2% to 18.1% of them being long-term users [1.8.2]. The question, 'Can you take steroids the rest of your life?' is critical for these patients, as the answer depends on the type of steroid and the underlying medical condition [1.2.3, 1.4.1].