Drug Utilization of Topical and Systemic Steroids in Treating Various Skin Diseases in the Dermatology Department of a Teaching Hospital, Bangalore

The study conducted in a teaching hospital in Bengaluru focused on the utilization of topical and systemic steroids in treating skin diseases among 272 patients. The majority of patients were females, with dermatitis being the most common condition treated. Topical corticosteroids were predominantly prescribed, with desonide being the most frequently used medication. The study highlighted the importance of using single corticosteroids and preferred dosage forms like lotions and ointments. It emphasized the need for standard guidelines to prevent the irrational use of steroids, which could lead to severe adverse drug reactions and impact patients' quality of life.