TSW (Topical Steroid Withdrawal)

[Kat]

I read that it's best to stop Topicals cold turkey and that by continuing to use even the smallest amount it's keeps the reaction active in your system. The websites were pretty adamant about not tapering. They make a case for cold turkey much better than I can state. Interesting reading.

Yes, I read the same. I want to think it's ok to use sparingly (with all the docs prescribing it and of course not if you have TSW) but it is definitely a concern. But... I know it's best just to not use any more and I hate that as it was the only good relief I was getting from itching.

I had never heard of this and it's something I have not experienced or considered I knew the steroids can thin the skin, but I've never experienced peeling
Is it caused by overuse? Or wrapping to strengthen the efficacy.
My derm used to wrap me in coal tar, but as far as steroids are concerned I was told not to apply in the folds of the skin as this will intensify the effect, I suppose the same as wrapping in film .
I will always keep a tube of dermovate for emergencies but I can understand if you have this reaction not using again

For me the peeling wasn't bad, it was more just an easier removal of scales (which is hard to explain). I feel that there is a place for steroid use as I have benefitted from them, BUT knowing that something like TSW exists it raises the question of "how much is too much?" And of course for each person I would imagine that is different. There are most likely people who have used a lot of topical steroids and never had TSW, and those who have used very little that develop it. I'm not willing to say I won't use topical steroids as I have had 3 doctors whom I consider good to prescribe it this past year and I've never had a problem using them. But from reading the info on TSW, the symptoms are very similar to many other skin problems, red scaly itchy skin so if you already are having those symptoms, how would one necessarily know?

Yet, when the only way to guarantee not developing TSW would be to stop all steroids...... it does make me question the pros vs the cons. Definitely a talk I plan to have with my doctors.