Patient knowledge and acceptability of topical corticosteroid preparations: the role of the pharmacist in patient education

Focal points □ Patients presenting to the pharmacist with a topical corticosteroid prescription were questioned using a semi-structured format on their perception of the acceptability of topical steroids, knowledge of steroid use and potential side effects □ Patients' knowledge about steroid use and side effects peaked in the 20-29 year age group, then declined with advancing age but scores for acceptability remained high throughout the adult age range □ Parents of children (aged 0-5 years) scored highest on both knowledge of preparation and side effects but lowest on acceptability of steroid use □ Following counselling by the pharmacist, parents showed an increase in their acceptability towards topical steroids from an average score of 47 per cent to an average score of 66 per cent □ This study demonstrates a need for information and education in the users of topical steroids