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Eczema Treatment: Topical Corticosteroids for Children

Your dermatologist has recommended a topical corticosteroid to treat your child’s eczema. This tip sheet will provide you with information on how to use this medication and what to expect while your child is using this medication.

Read through this information and follow any personalized instructions from your child’s dermatologist.

TOPICAL CORTICOSTEROIDS FOR CHILDREN

TIPS FOR USE

POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS

Studies show that side effects are rare when this medicine is used as directed by a dermatologist. All medicines, however, have possible side effects. Even an over-the-counter topical corticosteroid, like hydrocortisone, can cause side effects.

Most side effects occur on the skin and when the medicine is used on the same area of skin for months to years.

If you notice any of the following on your child’s skin, contact your child’s dermatologist:

Most side effects that develop on the skin will go away when you stop applying the medicine. It may take months for the side effects to disappear.

Other possible side effects include:

In addition, let your child’s pediatrician know they are using a topical steroid for their eczema. A pediatrician can note any unexpected changes in your child’s growth curve.

WHEN SHOULD I CALL MY CHILD’S DERMATOLOGIST?

You should contact your child’s dermatologist if you notice:

The AAD Eczema Resource Center, aad.org/public/diseases/eczema

All content solely developed by the American Academy of Dermatology.Copyright © by the American Academy of Dermatology and the American Academy of Dermatology Association.

Images used with permission of the American Academy of Dermatology National Library of Dermatologic Teaching Slides

American Academy of Dermatology

P.O. Box 1968, Des Plaines, Illinois 60017AAD Public Information Center: 888.462.DERM (3376) AAD Member Resource Center: 866.503.SKIN (7546) Outside the United States: 847.240.1280

Web: aad.org

Email: mrc@aad.org

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