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Corticosteroids

Corticosteroids are powerful anti-inflammatory drugs that help to suppress the immune system. These drugs are effective in treating many ailments, particularly autoimmune diseases, and have been used effectively for many years.

Corticosteroids (cortisol, corticosterone, cortisone, and aldosterone) are produced naturally in the body by the Cortex, which is the outer portion of the adrenal gland, and can be broken down into two categories:

  • Glucocorticoids: These act to suppress the immune system and lessen inflammation, while also assisting in the breakdown of fats, carbohydrates, and proteins
  • Mineralocorticoids: These regulate the balance of salt and water in the body
  • Synthetic corticosteroids mimic the actions of naturally occurring corticosteroids and are often used as a replacement in people with dysfunctional adrenal glands which are unable to produce adequate amounts of the chemicals.
  • Systemic corticosteroids refer to corticosteroids given orally, or via injection, and distributed throughout the body. These do not include corticosteroids used in the eyes, ears, nose, on the skin, or that are inhaled.

Examples of synthetic corticosteroids:

Corticosteroids are used to treat a long list of ailments and diseases. These include

SIDE EFFECTS

WARNINGS

Corticosteroids can interact badly with many other medications, so people using this drug must always consult with a doctor or pharmacist before using in conjunction with other medicines.

These drugs lower the effectiveness of antibiotics and vaccines, cause low blood pressure and heart failure when combined with medications that lower potassium levels, and have their effectiveness rapidly increased with the supplementation of estrogens.

Corticosteroids should never be taken without advice and consultation with a physician.

These medications should be taken with food, not mixed with drugs or alcohol, and abstained from when pregnant or breastfeeding.

A person taking corticosteroids should be a low sodium, high potassium, high protein, and low-calorie diet.

Due to decreased immune system efficiency, people taking this medication should avoid people with contagious illnesses and infections, particularly children using this medication.

This drug should not be stopped suddenly, as an adrenal crisis may occur. This is characterized by nausea, vomiting, and shock.