Corticosteroids are often confused with anabolic steroids typically used by athletes for performance enhancement. However, they should not be as there is a big difference between the two. The former are synthetic drugs that are made to mimic cortisol produced by the body. They are used for many different reasons but are most commonly prescribed as anti-inflammatory drugs used to mediate inflammation, fluid retention, immune response, and glucose production.
While corticosteroids are one of the fastest-acting drugs, they should be consumed with caution as they can lead to a wide range of side effects. To manage such symptoms, you need to educate yourself on corticosteroids properly.
Here is everything you need to know about how corticosteroids work, the different kinds, and their side effects.
How do Corticosteroids work
Sometimes our body’s natural response to inflammation is too mild to produce the desired effect which is why doctors prescribe and administer corticosteroids. They are classified into glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids and work by decreasing the production of those chemicals that cause the inflammatory processes in the body.
When a foreign particle enters the body and the bloodstream, our body’s natural response is to send white blood cells and mediators to fight off the intruder. This process results in swelling and inflammation which can be dangerous if it lasts for a long time. If it cannot be lowered naturally, corticosteroids work to reduce the mediators that cause the inflammatory reaction.
What are the different types of corticosteroids?
There are many different kinds of corticosteroids, but some of the more common include prednisone, cortisone, and methylprednisolone. Prednisone is the most widely prescribed and typically used to treat several ailments such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.
They are broadly administered in two different ways; locally or systemically. The local method means that the medication is applied at the sight of the problem, for example, through the use of topical ointments, creams, balms, inhalers, and joint injections. The systemic process means that the corticosteroid enters the bloodstream and causes an effect. This is usually in the form of intravenous injections or via oral medications. Local steroids are preferred due to minimal side effects.
What are the different uses and dosages of corticosteroids?
Corticosteroids are given when the body’s natural defense mechanism is impaired. They are either used as the primary treatment for a disease or given in combination with other medications and pills. Some of the common diseases for which corticosteroids are administered include:
- Allergies
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Eczema
- Hives
- Psoriasis
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Multiple sclerosis (MS)
- Lupus
- Addison’s disease
The dosage for the medication depends on the severity of the condition and should always be taken after careful consultation with your healthcare provider. They carefully investigate each case, analyze the overall health and consider if other medical treatments are possible before reaching a conclusion.
What are the side effects of taking corticosteroids?
If you consume corticosteroids for a while, you will start to notice certain changes and reactions in your body. You should be careful and inform your doctor of any adverse reactions when this happens. After two weeks of taking corticosteroid medication, your adrenal system may become slow in response. This may lead to it not responding actively to physical stress and is referred to as adrenal insufficiency. This situation is very dangerous and potentially life-threatening because your body cannot respond to illness and injury like it typically would. Another side effect is fluctuation in blood sugar levels.
Additionally, taking corticosteroids may result in a sudden spike in sugar levels which is harmful to the body. To avoid this, remember to monitor your sugar levels and notify your doctor if the levels are exceedingly high. The medication can also lead to weight gain, often seen on the face, neck, and middle. To combat this, patients should exercise and eat healthily. Because corticosteroids suppress the immune system, the body is more and more susceptible to infections. To be on the safe side, you should wash your hands regularly and practice good hygiene. Other than, other side effects include changes in skin color, high blood pressure, and moodiness.
Final thoughts
Corticosteroids are a highly effective treatment for inflammatory diseases and reduce their harmful effects. However, it should be taken in consultation with a healthcare provider due to its dangerous side effects. These changes should be carefully monitored so that the right action can be taken at the right time.
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