Steroids

Information about steroids and their use in treating psoriasis.

Steroids are usually the very first treatment used by many psoriatics. Steroids are very effective at reducing inflammation, and, used properly, result in few side effects, making them the obvious choice for a “first try” by dermatologists on patients newly-diagnosed with psoriasis.

The human body naturally produces many steroids (defined by the Merriam Webster Medical Dictionary as “any of numerous compounds containing a 17-carbon 4-ring system and including the sterols and various hormones and glycosides”), and they serve many different functions. The steroids typically used in the treatment of psoriasis are ones which regulate the immune system’s inflammatory response (more of these steroids present equates to less inflammation) or provide itch relief (such as over-the-counter hydrocortisone).

Steroids are by no means a “cure” for psoriasis, but once the inflammatory process has been eliminated, many people enjoy a good, long remission from psoriasis symptoms. Unfortunately, not everyone’s psoriasis reacts well to steroids and long-term use can lead to a “resistance” to the drugs, making them ineffective.

Due to the popularity of steroids, and the commonality of some of their side effects, I have written up a list of common problems people encounter. I urge anyone using steroids to follow the instructions on the package inserts very carefully, and talk them over with your doctor.

The steroid chart from the NPF’s pamphlet about steroids is available online from the American Academy of Family Physicians, in their article on topical psoriasis therapies.