A COMPARATIVE STUDY ON THE SAFETY RISKS AND FINANCIAL IMPACT OF TOPICAL STEROID MISUSE AMONG PATIENTS WHO SELF-MEDICATE VERSUS THOSE USING DOCTOR-PRESCRIBED TREATMENTS

Abstract

Introduction Topical corticosteroids are presently the main medications used to address various dermatological conditions. However, they are often misapplied for a range of issues including acne, pigmentation, fungal infections, and itching, frequently being utilized as cosmetic products or skin creams for any form of rash. This research aims to evaluate the extent of adverse effects between groups of patients who have been prescribed these medications by practitioners and those who have self-prescribed. Furthermore, this study also examines the demographic and educational backgrounds of patients in whom topical steroids are most commonly misused.

Materials and Methods: This  cross-sectional study was conducted in the GMC Ratlam. A total of 100 patients were enrolled after getting the informed consent for the study, and assessed based on their topical steroid misuse and their adverse effects. Results: The present study showed that steroid misuse was most common between 20 and 30 years of age group patients with low educational status. The most commonly applied steroid was clobetasol followed by mometasone and steroid abuse was more common in self-prescribed patients than physician-prescribed patients. The economic burden was more in the case of people using steroid cream  because they have to be applied over a large body surface area. Incidence of adverse effects was observed more in self-prescribed patients and with low educational status.

Conclusion: This study highlights the fact that self-medication increases the incidence of adverse reactions and economic burden on the patients. Continuous education of patients and strict regulations regarding over-the-counter sales of steroids may help decrease the incidence of steroid misuse.