Health NewsDrug SafetyEvergreen guide

Drug safety watch: the topical steroid mix creams behind India's fungal epidemic

Fixed-dose steroid-antifungal combos sold over the counter keep worsening ringworm. Dermatologists urge prescription discipline and patient counselling.

By BHG NewsroomNot yet medically reviewedAll news

Hero illustration prompt: Editorial photo of a dermatology clinic desk with cream tubes and prescription, Indian context, clean and non-sensational, ultra-HD.

Why the itch comes back stronger

Potent steroids in common combo creams reduce redness and itching fast, while locally suppressing immunity. The fungus keeps spreading under a calmer-looking skin surface, and tinea becomes harder to diagnose and treat — so-called tinea incognito.

Repeated courses also thin skin and cause stretch marks, and patients may keep buying the cream without advice.

What to do instead

See a dermatologist for ring-like itchy patches lasting more than a couple of weeks
Use plain antifungal treatment as prescribed for the full course — stopping early selects recurrence
Do not share or reuse leftover steroid mixes; keep them off the face and groin
Wash and iron clothes and towels hot; treat household members who are symptomatic
Report suspected adverse drug reactions to a pharmacist or the national portal

Source & fact-check note

Describes a widely reported clinical pattern without inventing trial numbers; no specific brands named as offenders.

BHG Newsroom — dermatology public-health commentary summaryOfficial source

This item is general educational guidance. It does not diagnose, prescribe or change doses. It is an evergreen guide, not a report of a specific event.

Understand this better

Fungal Skin Infection Eczema Skin Allergies Neem

More from the newsroom

Drug Safety

US FDA recall: Olanzapine Tablets made by Macleods Pharmaceuticals Limited

30 September 2026

Drug Safety

US FDA recall: Chlorthalidone Tablets made by Inventia Healthcare Limited

23 September 2026

Drug Safety

US FDA recall: PEMRYDI RTU made by Shilpa Medicare Limited

26 August 2026

This website provides general educational information and is not a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, treatment or emergency care. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Why the itch comes back stronger

Repeated courses also thin skin and cause stretch marks, and patients may keep buying the cream without advice.

What to do instead

See a dermatologist for ring-like itchy patches lasting more than a couple of weeks

Use plain antifungal treatment as prescribed for the full course — stopping early selects recurrence

Do not share or reuse leftover steroid mixes; keep them off the face and groin

Wash and iron clothes and towels hot; treat household members who are symptomatic

Report suspected adverse drug reactions to a pharmacist or the national portal

Source & fact-check note

Describes a widely reported clinical pattern without inventing trial numbers; no specific brands named as offenders.

BHG Newsroom — dermatology public-health commentary summaryOfficial source

This item is general educational guidance. It does not diagnose, prescribe or change doses. It is an evergreen guide, not a report of a specific event.