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Corticosteroids
 
What are corticosteroids?
Corticosteroids are medicines that are similar to natural hormones the body produces. These hormones, also called steroids, help to control the immune system, body metabolism or chemical response, and the body's response to stress. Corticosteroid medicines reduce inflammation and control the immune system.

How are they taken or used?
Corticosteroids can be taken orally, injected, put on the skin, inhaled, or taken rectally. Most corticosteroids require a prescription. Some mild forms used as skin creams, such as hydrocortisone, do not require a prescription. Prednisone is the most commonly prescribed corticosteroid taken by mouth.

What conditions do they treat?
Some common conditions treated with corticosteroids are:
  • asthma
  • chronic lung disease
  • rheumatoid arthritis
  • lupus
  • colitis
  • psoriasis
  • some allergic conditions.

They may also be taken to prevent rejection after an organ transplant.

What are the side effects?
When inhaled or used on the skin, corticosteroids have few side effects. However, taking them by mouth or getting shots for more than a few weeks can lead to side effects that include:
  • changes in appearance such as rounding of the face, facial hair growth in women, and obesity
  • thinning of the skin, stretch marks, and easy bruising
  • thinning of the arms and legs
  • hunger
  • changes in body minerals, especially potassium
  • mental problems
  • hypertension
  • osteoporosis
  • increased risk of certain types of infections, such as yeast or fungal infections
  • increased blood sugar.

The side effects depend on the dose and how long you take the medicine, as well as your medical history and conditions. Although these drugs can cause many side effects, they can be very effective, even lifesaving.

If you develop side effects, call your healthcare provider for instructions. Do not stop taking the medicine without your healthcare provider's approval. You may have to gradually reduce your dosage. Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have any questions about these medicines.




  Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

  HIA File MED4259F.HTM Release 9.0/2006. Copyright © 2006 McKesson Corporation and/or one of its subdiaries. All Rights Reserved.


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