Steroids
Steroids are only prescribed where patients are suffering from severe inflammatory acne. A short course will reduce the amount of inflamed lesions and has the ability to take control of severe inflammatory acne very quickly.
| For large inflammatory lesions an injection steroid (systemic) called cortisone may be administered. This treatment is best administered in the early stages of the inflammation process to reduce inflammation and clear lesions. Oral steroids (systemic) are usually given alongside oral antibiotics or isotretinoin (an oral retinoid, chemically related to vitamin A, used for the treatment of moderate to severe acne). |  |
These types of steroids are also known as corticosteroids, glucocorticoids or cortisones and work in the same way as natural cortisol. Corticosteroid medicines are derivatives of the natural corticosteroid hormones produced by the adrenal glands. They control inflammatory responses and suppress inflammation in the skin.
Systemic steroids include:
- Prednisone
- Prednisolone
- Methylprednisolone
- Beclomethasone
- Betamethasone
- Dexamethasone
- Fludrocortisone
- Hydrocortisone
- Triamcinolone
Natural cortisol regulates the body’s:
- Protein, carbohydrate, lipid and nucleic acid metabolism
- Inflammation and immune response
- Distribution and excretion of water and solutes
- Secretion of adrenocorticotrophic hormone from the pituitary gland
The skin is prone to steroid acne: clusters of small spots on face, chest and upper back, from using systemic steroids.
If your doctor/dermatologist has prescribed steroid treatment then regular monitoring will be required, such as:
- Blood pressure
- Body weight
- Blood sugar
When the time is right your doctor/dermatologist will prepare a programme to gradually wean you off steroid treatments – do not stop taking them suddenly.
Topical corticosteroids should not be applied to areas of the skin not affected by acne including acne rosacea. They should not be used during pregnancy/breast feeding unless your doctor feels it appropriate.
Your doctor/dermatologist will advise you on the best course of treatment for your acne symptoms.
Information written by the talkhealth medical panel
Last Reviewed: 4 March 2011
Next Review Date: 4 March 2013
