Real-world safety evaluation of topical corticosteroid use: A community pharmacy-based, prospective, observational study

Abstract

Considering the concerns about topical corticosteroid (TC) phobia that prevents necessary use of patients from using the necessary TCs, estimating the incidence and characteristics of adverse drug events (ADEs) related to TCs in the real world is warranted. However, limited study investigated them. This prospective observational study aimed to assess the utility patterns and safety data related to TC use and predisposing factors among community-dwelling population. We included and prospectively observed the TC users through nationwide multi-centre observational cohort based on community pharmacies and dermatologic clinic. Among the enrolled 1175 over-the-counter and prescription TC users, a total of 1103 participants were included for the analysis. Inappropriate TC use was observed in 6.3%. The cumulative incidence and prevalence of overall ADE for 6 months were 3.5% and 7.2%, respectively, and the incidence rate was 0.3 cases per 1000 person-days of TC use. Most ADEs were local reactions, mainly skin atrophy and hyperpigmentation. Exposure to TCs for >12 weeks (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 4.38, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.23-8.63) and past experience of ADE (aOR 36.70, 95% CI 16.74-80.44) were identified as significant predictors of TC-related ADEs. The ADE incidence related to TCs was relatively low, and the real-world safety of using TCs in the general population might not be greatly concerning. However, some populations who are highly at a risk of ADEs should be closely monitored and made aware regarding the risk.