Helllo everyone, following a recent post regarding concerns over Etin, a product being sold as a regular moisturiser, some discussion was generated (see earlier posts). We have a statement below from a member of our Medical Advisoyr Board, Professor Celia Moss, Consultant Dermatologist which we hope will set things straight, particularly in the UK. Concerns about this product have been circulated by the British Association of Dermatologists. "Etin is a steroid lotion masquerading as an innocent moisturiser. The small print indicates that it contains betamethasone dipropionate, a potent steroid. Steroid creams and lotions suppress immune reactions in the skin and are used for inflammatory skin disorders. But steroid creams used inappropriately can cause harm, particularly on an infant’s or child’s skin, and on sensitive areas such as the face. They suppress the skin’s response to infection, can thin the skin, and if applied long term over a wide area, particularly in babies and children, can cause other medical problems. Milder steroids for short-term use can be purchased over the counter from a pharmacist, but potent steroids such as this are “prescription only”. The supply of potent steroid preparations direct to the public is illegal in the UK, and the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Authority (who have been informed of this product) investigates and takes legal action. For example last year a Walsall shopkeeper was fined £20,000 plus costs and sentenced to 9 months’ imprisonment for selling a steroid cream called Super Soraderm. In the case of Etin the advice on the bottle that “You may apply over the skin as often and regular as you wish” is particularly dangerous. Steroid creams are not appropriate for the treatment of ichthyosis. The only exception is occasional use in Netherton syndrome for acute flares. Anyone using a steroid lotion such as this is likely to perceive some short-term benefit, because steroids make red skin look paler. This is because steroids constrict blood vessels in the skin. Unfortunately on discontinuing the product there may be a rebound of redness, which of course makes people want to continue it. But to do so is unwise, and after a few days the skin will revert to its previous appearance. Professor Celia Moss Consultant Dermatologist Member of the Medical Advisory Board, Ichthyosis Support Group."
Posted on: Fri, 19 Jul 2013 17:00:00 +0000
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