The medicines known as corticosteroids (also called steroids or cortisone) are like the body's natural hormone cortisol. Cortisol helps to regulate the immune system, body metabolism and our response to stress. There are many corticosteroid medications available. The most common oral form is prednisone. When taken as medications, the corticosteroids have two main effects. They reduce inflammation, and they suppress the immune system. Depending on what condition they are used to treat, corticosteroids can be taken orally, injected, put on the skin, inhaled or taken rectally. Other than mild forms used as skin creams, such as Cortaid, corticosteroids require a prescription.

Corticosteroids are prescribed for many conditions. If you are not sure why you have been prescribed one, ask. Some common conditions treated with these drugs include asthma, chronic lung disease, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus, colitis, psoriasis and allergic conditions. Also, corticosteroids are used with other immune suppressing medications after organ transplants.

When inhaled or placed on the skin, the corticosteroids have few serious side effects. However, when taken orally for prolonged periods, these medications can cause serious side effects. Depending on the condition being treated, the dose of corticosteroid may fluctuate or remain constant. Some of the side effects seen with oral corticosteroids are:
* 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,
* changes in body minerals, especially potassium,
* increased risk of certain types of infections, especially yeast infections, of the mouth and vagina, and
* increased blood sugar.

Your risk of these side effects depends on the dose and length of corticosteroid therapy as well as your medical history and conditions. While these drugs can cause many side effects, they can be very effective, even lifesaving. If you should develop some side effects, never stop taking the medication. Call your provider for instructions. Patients taking corticosteroids for prolonged periods will require a gradual reduction in dose before completely stopping.

If you have any questions about these medications, don't wait! Ask your provider or pharmacist.

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