Steroids Flashcards
What are steroid drugs commonly used for?
Steroid drugs are commonly used to reduce inflammation, suppress the immune system, and treat various medical conditions.
Which of the following is NOT a common side effect of topical steroids? A) Skin thinning B) Weight gain C) Acne D) Increased hair growth
B) Weight gain
What is a potential risk of prolonged use of high-potency topical steroids?
Prolonged use can lead to skin atrophy, striae, and tachyphylaxis.
What condition is often treated with topical steroids?
Conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis are often treated with topical steroids.
True or False: Topical steroids can be used on the face without precautions.
False
What should be monitored when a patient is using topical steroids?
Patients should be monitored for skin thinning, local irritation, and signs of infection.
What is the difference between low-potency and high-potency topical steroids?
Low-potency steroids are safer for long-term use and are used for mild conditions, while high-potency steroids are used for more severe conditions but carry a higher risk of side effects.
Fill in the blank: The most common topical steroid is ______.
hydrocortisone
What is the recommended duration for using high-potency topical steroids?
High-potency topical steroids should generally not be used for more than 2 weeks continuously.
True or False: Topical steroids can cause systemic effects if used over large areas of the body.
True
Name one contraindication for the use of topical steroids.
Topical steroids should not be used on infected or broken skin.
What is ‘tachyphylaxis’ in relation to topical steroid use?
Tachyphylaxis refers to a decreased response to a drug after its repeated use, leading to reduced efficacy of the steroid.
What is occlusion in topical steroid therapy and what causes it?
Occlusion enhances the absorption of topical steroids. Caused by applying to thin skin areas or using dressings.
What is a common side effect of using topical steroids on the face?
A common side effect is perioral dermatitis.
What is the significance of ‘vehicle’ in topical steroid formulations?
The vehicle affects the absorption and efficacy of the steroid; common vehicles include creams, ointments, and lotions.
Name a condition where topical steroids are contraindicated.
Topical steroids are contraindicated in untreated bacterial infections.
True or False: Topical steroids can be used in children with caution.
True
