A 29-year-old member asked:
I don't want to use sterroids to treat my 3 month olds eczema. what safer options do i have? severe eczema runs in my family.
2 doctor answers • 8 doctors weighed in
Dr. Michael Fisheranswered
Dermatology 34 years experience
Elidel (pimecrolimus): My son, now 15 months, has had problems with eczema since he was born. Extremely bad patches on his cheeks that would often begin to bleed because he would scratch them so much. We tried using several non-rx creams from aveno to aquaphor. Then we tried a prescrption steroid. Nothing seemed to work. Elidel (pimecrolimus) cleared his face up after the first 3 days of use. Now we use it only as it flares up.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.9k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. James Fergusonanswered
Pediatrics 48 years experience
Why ?: Other than having some bad press, I see no reason to avoid them.Steroids are produced by the human body as a natural response to stress.When used properly they can be helpful in eczema, as can many other lotions and skin care rituals.Pimecrolimus and similar meds can be helpful but also have risks.Your best bet is to find a Pedi Dermatologist and come up with a plan that works for you.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
857 viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Last updated Dec 19, 2016
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