Volume : 13, Issue : 04, April – 2026

Title:

PRESCRIBING PATTERN OF TOPICAL CORTICOSTEROIDS IN DERMATOLOGY WARD: REVIEW ARTICLE

Authors :

E.Sreeja*, Saba Mubeena, Supriya Kulkarni , P.Swathi, Dr. P. Soma Shekhar

Abstract :

Background: Topical corticosteroids (TCS) represent the most widely prescribed class of dermatological agents globally, encompassing over forty formulations across seven potency classes. Despite their established therapeutic utility in inflammatory, autoimmune, and pruritic skin conditions, irrational prescribing patterns—including inappropriate potency selection, incorrect vehicle choice, excessive duration of therapy, and application to contraindicated anatomical sites—remain pervasive in both primary care and tertiary dermatology settings.
Objective: This narrative review aims to comprehensively appraise current evidence on prescribing patterns of TCS within dermatology wards, identify determinants of irrational use, characterise the spectrum of associated adverse effects, review relevant drug utilisation studies, and propose evidence-based strategies to promote rational TCS prescribing.
Key Findings: Published literature reveals consistent patterns of TCS misuse including overuse of super-potent agents on the face and flexures, prolonged application beyond recommended durations, widespread use without definitive diagnosis, and rampant over-the-counter (OTC) self-medication in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Drug utilisation studies employing WHO core drug use indicators demonstrate polypharmacy, suboptimal patient counselling, and prescriber knowledge deficits as primary drivers. Adverse effects range from cutaneous atrophy, striae, and steroid-induced rosacea to systemic complications including hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis suppression and iatrogenic Cushing’s syndrome.
Conclusion: Rational use of TCS demands accurate diagnosis, systematic potency selection guided by established classifications (BNF/WHO), adherence to evidence-based duration protocols, and structured patient education. Pharmacists occupy a critical, underutilised role in surveillance, counselling, and stewardship of TCS therapy. Strengthened prescribing guidelines, educational interventions, and regulatory frameworks governing OTC availability are urgently needed.
Keywords: Topical corticosteroids; prescribing patterns; dermatology; drug utilisation; rational pharmacotherapy; adverse effects; pharmacovigilance; fingertip unit; BNF potency classification; OTC misuse.

Cite This Article:

Please cite this article in press E.sreeja et al., Prescribing Pattern Of Topical Corticosteroids In Dermatology Ward: Review Article, Indo Am. J. P. Sci, 2026; 13(04).

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