Analysis of Chinese herbal creams prescribed for dermatological conditions

Abstract

Objective. To determine whether Chinese herbal creams used for the treatment of dermatological conditions contain steroids. Design. 11 herbal creams obtained from patients attending general and paediatric dermatology outpatient clinics were analysed with high resolution gas chromatography and mass spectrometry. Setting. Departments of dermatology and clinical biochemistry. Main outcome measure. Presence of steroid. Results. Eight creams contained dexamethasone at a mean concentration of 456 μg/g (range 64 to 1500 μg/g). All were applied to areas of sensitive skin such as face and flexures. Conclusion. Greater regulation needs to be imposed on Chinese herbalists to prevent illegal and inappropriate prescribing of potent steroids.