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steven_lewis2026-04-17

I have been dealing with a severe case of eczema for a while now and my dermatologist prescribed Aristocort HP 0.5% Ointment. The doctor said it's a strong corticosteroid to reduce redness, swelling, itching, and discomfort. I've started using it, but I'm a bit worried about the urgent side effects. I've heard about some people experiencing allergic reactions, high blood sugar, and even Cushing's syndrome. Has anyone else had similar experiences or know more about the side effects I should look out for? Also does it work well? Does it provide long term relief?

1 min read
last active 4/17/2026
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Comments (10)

J
jonathan_hamilton4/13/2026

I had this doctor tell me to just use steroid cream everywhere, but I feel like you could have some real issues with this stuff. I only use it on the really big flare-ups.

J
judy_berry4/13/2026

I used it for a month, but then I started getting these weird pimples and my skin was thinning. I stopped using it as soon as I noticed.

T
teresa_henry4/13/2026

I've been using this for years and never had any issues. But I also take really good care of my skin and don't overuse it. Just following the instructions worked great for me.

E
eric_reyes4/13/2026

I've used Aristocort for my psoriasis and it worked wonders. No side effects for me, but I was very careful with the application. Make sure you're following the directions exactly.

R
robert_stephens4/14/2026

I had a bad reaction to it. My skin got super dry and irritated. I switched to a milder cream and it was much better. Might be worth considering if you have issues.

W
william_owens4/14/2026

I had a friend who used this and ended up with moon face. That seems really scary to me. I don't think I would ever use something with that many possible life threatening side effects.

J
joyce_murray4/14/2026

I'm not a doctor, but IMO, it's probably best to stick to the lower potency stuff unless you have no choice. I had to fight my doctor to switch me to a weaker cream. I only use the strong stuff if there's a flare- up.

N
nicholas_schmidt4/14/2026

Finding a good topical cream is so hard, even if this is strong I hope you have some luck with it. My doctor was like 'let's just try it' but I'm holding off.

L
lori_allen4/14/2026

Right now I've been using a combo of this and some moisturizer to keep my skin from getting too dry. I can deal with the burning or itching but I can't handle the dry skin.

M
martha_lane4/14/2026

It worked well but the side effects are scary. I had the same questions, but I asked my doc and she said the negative side effects are rare though.