The Hidden Epidemic of Topical Steroid Use: Prevalence and Impact Among Jordan's General Population

    September 2025 in “ Clinical Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology ”
    Hanadi Qeyam, Rola Al-Shaimi, Noor Alfattah, Ensaf Almomani, Ahmed Al‐Rusan, Jihan Muhaidat, Diala Alshiyab, Firas Al‐Qarqaz, Leen Heis
    Image of study
    TLDR Many people in Jordan misuse topical steroids without proper knowledge, highlighting the need for better education and regulation.
    The study involving 714 participants in Jordan reveals significant misuse and lack of awareness regarding topical corticosteroids (TCS), with 46.8% of participants keeping these creams at home, often obtained without prescriptions. Despite explanations, only 63.2% read the medication leaflet, and 61.3% were aware of side effects. Clobetasol propionate, a potent corticosteroid, is frequently used without adequate knowledge of its risks. Misuse is linked to informal acquisition channels, and demographic factors influence use patterns. The study underscores the need for better education and regulation to prevent inappropriate TCS use and its potential adverse effects, particularly given the common application on vulnerable areas like the face.
    Discuss this study in the Community →

    Related Community Posts Join

    6 / 1000+ results

      community This and ketoconazole 2% life changing

      in Ketoconazole  69 upvotes 1 year ago
      The post discusses the user's experience with hair loss treatment using finasteride, clobetasol propionate, and ketoconazole shampoo. The conversation warns about the potential side effects of clobetasol, a powerful topical steroid, and emphasizes its short-term usage.
      If You Have DUPA, PLEASE READ THIS: Everyone Should Be Scalp Biopsied

      community If You Have DUPA, PLEASE READ THIS: Everyone Should Be Scalp Biopsied

      in Research  830 upvotes 1 year ago
      Scalp biopsies are crucial for diagnosing hair loss conditions like Diffuse Unpatterned Alopecia (DUPA) and retrograde hair loss, as treatments like finasteride and dutasteride may not be effective if other conditions are present. Combining PPAR-GAMMA agonists with retinoids could improve treatments for conditions like Lichen Planopilaris.

      community The Worst Hair Loss Condition You (MAY) have: LPP

      in Research/Science  43 upvotes 1 year ago
      Lichen Planopilaris (LPP) is an autoimmune condition causing permanent hair loss and fibrosis, often misdiagnosed. Treatments include pioglitazone, topical corticosteroids, anti-inflammatory medication, and Jak inhibitors.

      community Why is no one pointing out dandruff as the number 1 evidence/symptom of MPB?

      in Chat  55 upvotes 2 years ago
      The post discusses the theory that persistent dandruff in areas prone to hair loss could be a sign of hair follicles dying due to DHT, indicating balding. The responses vary, with some users noting improvements in dandruff and hair loss with treatments like Dutasteride, while others experienced hair loss without dandruff.

      community DHT Harms Scalp Microbiome: DHT Itch is REAL

      in Research/Science  415 upvotes 5 months ago
      Increased Malassezia and Cutibacterium in the scalp microbiome are linked to higher sebum production and inflammation in androgenetic alopecia (AGA). Treatments include ciclopirox shampoo, benzoyl peroxide shampoo, clobetasol propionate, calcipotriol, minoxidil, finasteride, and dutasteride.

      community 8 years of hair loss, turning 30 next month

      in Progress Pictures  150 upvotes 2 months ago
      The user has been dealing with hair loss for 10 years, worsened by psoriasis, and uses minoxidil and finasteride. They seek advice on managing psoriasis and hair loss, with suggestions to see a dermatologist, try different shampoos, and be patient.

    Similar Research

    5 / 1000+ results