The College of Pharmacy at the University of Basrah discussed the Master's thesis by researcher (Tiba Hassan Sakban), titled "Adverse Effects of Chronic and Misuse of Topical Steroids on Local and Systemic Indicators in Addicted Women in Basrah Governorate."
The study revealed that addiction to topical corticosteroids (TCs) is a dangerous phenomenon associated with a wide range of dermatological side effects, such as erythema, photosensitivity, atrophy, and rosacea. The study included 125 individuals, showing that prolonged misuse leads to systemic complications beyond the skin, manifested in disturbed hemoglobin levels and severe deficiencies in Interleukin-6 and Vitamin D.
Furthermore, the research uncovered the suppressive effect of these substances on the natural secretion of cortisol and Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH), posing a significant threat to the body's hormonal balance. The thesis concluded with the urgent need to raise health awareness regarding the risks of topical steroids used incorrectly, describing the current situation as a health disaster that requires immediate intervention to mitigate its severe dermatological and physiological consequences.
