A Fun Look at Rashes and Topical Steroids

Send us Fan Mail Summary:  Who hasn’t had a rash?  This episode looks at the available steroid creams (Corticosteroids – not anabolic), broken down by their potency and possible indications for use.  And as with every other medication on the market, there are potential side effects, which mandates the Risk-Benefit discussion.  Knowing the trigger, which may include stress, for the rash and the proper use of a topical steroid treatment is the road to the best treatment.  A reminder:  just because it’s a topical treatment doesn’t mean it’s not a potent medication.Topics:·       OTC Hydrocortisone Cream & Ointment 01:30·       Occlusives 02:30·       Mechanism of Action 03:20-              Reduce inflammation-              Suppress immune response-              Reduce cell turnover-              Constrict blood vessels·       7 Classes of Topical Steroid Potency 06:00·       Where are You on the continuum? 07:00·       Indications 10:00·       Risk-Benefit (side effects) 13:00 Questions and comments to  [email protected]