Risks and Realities of Oral Steroid Overuse for Eczema

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Our Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Innovations podcast series on oral corticosteroid (OCS) overuse continues with a look at eczema (atopic dermatitis) treatment. This is the second of two episodes about using OCS medications. We talk about the risks of using systemic steroids (pills, injections or IV) and topical steroids (creams or ointments) too often for eczema treatment.

This episode about overusing oral corticosteroids to treat eczema is produced in partnership with The Itch Podcast. Our co-hosts Payel Gupta, MD, and Kortney talk with dermatologist Mondana Ghias, MD, about safer treatments for eczema. They discuss how oral corticosteroids quickly help but can cause problems if used too much.

You can listen to the podcast on ItchPodcast.com. The podcast is also available as a download on major platforms for listening anytime, anywhere:

We thank Sanofi Regeneron for sponsoring this episode. All opinions expressed are our own and do not reflect views of Sanofi Regeneron. Sponsorship does not influence content or editorial decisions. Any mention of brands is for informational purposes and not an endorsement.

The harm of overusing steroids for eczema

Corticosteroids can stop eczema flares fast, but using them for too long or too often can cause harmful side effects. Dr. Ghias explains how steroids affect your body and skin over time. She talks about safer treatment options, including for people with darker skin tones.

Key takeaways about steroids and eczema

Learn why oral corticosteroids should only be a short-term fix for eczema flares and discover safer treatments that don’t include OCS.

  • Why steroids are used: Steroids quickly reduce eczema flare-ups but aren’t safe for long-term or frequent use.
  • Long-term side effects: Using steroids too often can cause side effects,  steroid withdrawal symptoms and skin problems.
  • Treating eczema in darker skin tones: Eczema can look different on darker skin, and steroids may cause skin color changes.
  • Non-steroidal treatments: Safer, non-steroid treatments exist, including creams, ointments, pills, and biologics.
  • Seeing a specialist for eczema: Visiting an allergist or dermatologist helps you find the best eczema care.

Timestamps for ‘Oral Steroid Overuse for Eczema’

02:29 – What are oral steroids?

04:23 – How steroids help eczema

06:02 – Using steroids only for short-term relief

07:40 – Side effects steroids can cause

08:53 – How much steroid use is too much?

11:54 – Eczema care for darker skin tones

13:17 – When might steroids be okay for eczema

14:07 – What is steroid withdrawal?

23:32 – Other treatments for eczema

27:43 – When to see a skin specialist

Additional resources about oral corticosteroids and eczema

More podcasts about eczema and non-steroidal treatments