Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutic Applications of Topical Corticosteroids in Contemporary Pharmacy Practice: An Updated Review for Pharmacists
December 2025
in “
Saudi Journal of Medicine and Public Health
”
New to Alopecia Areata? There is a guide in the encyclopedia. Read the guide → Studysummary This narrative review highlights the critical role of pharmacists in optimizing topical corticosteroid therapy through proper agent selection, dosing, and patient education to manage various steroid-responsive skin conditions effectively.
Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer
Topical corticosteroids (TCS) are essential in treating various steroid-responsive skin conditions, including psoriasis, eczema, and alopecia areata, due to their anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties. This review emphasizes the importance of pharmacists in selecting the appropriate TCS based on potency, vehicle, and site, as well as in educating patients on proper dosing using fingertip units (FTUs) and monitoring for adverse effects like skin atrophy and systemic absorption risks. Pharmacists play a crucial role in ensuring safe and effective TCS use through patient education, adherence support, and safety monitoring.
