Topical steroids with anti-infectives are combination creams, ointments, gels, shampoos, or powders that contain both a steroid and an anti-infective agent and are used to treat infections of the skin or scalp that are red, itchy, or have minor swelling.
Steroids (also known as corticosteroids) are very effective at reducing inflammation (redness and swelling), suppressing the immune system, and constricting (narrowing) blood vessels in the skin. They are available in various potencies (strengths).
Anti-infective agents kill or inhibit the spread of infectious organisms. They include antibiotics (kill bacteria), antibacterials (suppress bacterial growth), antifungal (kill or suppress fungi) and antiviral (kill or suppress viruses) agents.
The choice of topical steroid with anti-infective depends on the suspected or confirmed infective organism (ie, whether it is a bacteria, fungus, or virus) and the potency of the steroid required.
