Oral corticosteroids for atopic dermatitis

Examples

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Brand Name	Generic Name
Hydrocortone	hydrocortisone

Brand Name	Generic Name
Medrol	methylprednisolone

Brand Name	Generic Name
Prelone	prednisolone

Brand Name	Generic Name
Prelone	prednisone

How It Works

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Corticosteroids are similar to natural substances the body produces to help reduce inflammation and itching. For atopic dermatitis, corticosteroids reduce inflammation, itching, and thickening of the skin (lichenification).

Why It Is Used

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Oral corticosteroids are generally not recommended for controlling atopic dermatitis. They are used only for severe cases of atopic dermatitis or when topical agents (creams and ointments) and antihistamines have not worked.

How Well It Works

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Oral corticosteroids are often effective in reducing inflammation and itching. A high initial dose usually eliminates the rash quickly.

Side Effects

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Side effects of oral corticosteroids include headache, indigestion, increased appetite, restlessness, and increased risk of infection.

Skin rash, blurred vision, increased urination, excessive thirst, and mood changes are side effects that should be reported to your health professional.

Side effects from long-term use can include:

• Cataracts, cloudy areas in the lens of the eye.
• Osteoporosis, a progressive disease that causes bones to become thin and porous, increasing the risk for vertebrae and hip fractures.
• Diabetes, a disease in which the body either does not produce or is unable to use insulin properly.
• Cushing's syndrome, a disorder caused by excessive amounts of the hormone cortisol in the blood.
• Avascular necrosis (osteonecrosis), a decrease or stoppage of blood to tissue, especially to one hip.

See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug Reference is not available in all systems.)

What To Think About

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Corticosteroids are usually used in combination with preventive measures, such as moisturizing your skin and avoiding skin irritants.

Complete the new medication information form (PDF) (What is a PDF document?) to help you understand this medication.

Credits

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Author	Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS
Editor	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor	Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer	Martin Gabica, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine
Last Updated	May 5, 2008