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Problems with Steroids and Other
Treatments
Steroids
The type of
steroids used to treat psoriasis and related
conditions are termed corticosteroids.
These are potent anti-inflammatory and
anti-allergy compounds and are the main
treatment for most cases of psoriasis.
The problem with corticosteroids is that
their effects on the immune system are not
specific. Whilst decreasing the degree of
inflammation, corticosteroids also decrease
wound healing rates and immune system
defences against infection. They also make
skin more fragile.
Taken orally, corticosteroids can also
affect glucose control, decrease bone
strength and increase the risk of stomach
ulcers (if taking oral corticosteroids, do
not stop taking them abruptly unless
otherwise directed by your physician).
While corticosteroids have a major role in
treating skin conditions, it should be noted
that they do not address the underlying
cause of a given skin problem.
Measures which allow the minimum
corticosteroid dosage at every possible step
(see
Psoriasis Management
Plan) reduce corticosteroid
complications and also tend to focus more on
prevention and the underlying nature of the
skin condition.
The adjustment of corticosteroid dose
(either topically or in tablet form) should
be done in consultation with your doctor.
Psoria contains no corticosteroids.
Strength of Corticosteroid
Preparations
Topical
| |
Class |
Strength |
Compound |
|
| |
1 |
Mild |
Hydrocortisone 0.5 to 1%
Hydrocortisone acetate 0.5 to 1% |
|
| |
2 |
Moderate |
Alclometasone dipropionate 0.05%
Betamethasone valerate 0.02 to 0.05%
Triamcinolone acetonide 0.02 to
0.05% |
|
| |
3 |
Potent |
Betamethasone dipropionate 0.05%
Betamethasone valerate 0.1%
Methylprednisolone aceponate 0.1%
Mometasone furoate 0.1%
Triamcinolone acetonide 0.1% |
|
| |
4 |
Very Potent |
Betamethasone dipropionate in
optimised vehicle 0.05%
Halcinonide |
|
Oral
Potent to
Very Potent
Prednisolone
Prednisone
Cortisone
Coal Tar
Coal tar
contains a number of carcinogenic (cancer
causing) compounds. These include benzene,
toluene, naphthalene, anthracene, xylene,
phenol, cresols, pyridine and quinoline.
These compounds have caused cancers in
animals. Although the cancer risk to humans
from coal tar appears to be low, we
recommend avoiding coal tar containing
products.
Nutri-Pharm products do not contain
coal tar.
Salicylic Acid
Salicylic
acid is used to remove dead or flaky skin in
psoriasis, dermatitis and similar
conditions, and is used quite commonly.
Unfortunately, salicylic acid, like aspirin
and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory
drugs (NSAID's) can worsen these skin
conditions in a number of cases. Salicylic
acid is a skin irritant and should only be
used cautiously if at all.
Psoria contains no salicylic acid.
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