strength of topical steroid

Last reviewed 01/2018

  • side effects of topical steroid preparations are dependent on the duration of use and the product strength - strong topical steroid preparations may therefore be used for short durations without risk of side effects (1)

  • topical steroids are classified dependent on their potency
    • weak e.g. 1% hydrocortisone
    • moderate e.g. clobetasone butyrate (Eumovate)
    • strong e.g. betamethasone 17-valerate (Betnovate)
    • very strong e.g. clobetasol propionate (Dermovate)

Reference:

  • Update (1999), 59 (3), 189-200.