Systemic side effects of Corticosteroids

What is the systemic side effects of steroids ?:

   Weight gain, changes in mood, sleeplessness, increased appetite, high blood pressure, osteoporosis, muscle weakness, and an increased risk of infection are just a few of the systemic side effects of corticosteroids can cause. Prolonged use can also result in the suppression of the adrenal glands, a higher risk of certain infections, and eye disorders like glaucoma and cataracts. If your doctor has prescribed corticosteroids, you should talk to them about these problems.

   Due to these serious systemic side effects of Corticosteroids it is necessary to know about side effects deeply:

   ● Increase blood sugar levels: 

It is true that corticosteroids may affect blood sugar levels. By increasing gluconeogenesis or the production of glucose from non-carbohydrate sources, and reducing cell uptake of glucose, they can increase blood sugar levels. Those who have diabetes or are vulnerable to having high blood sugar levels are going to suffer this effect more severely. When using corticosteroids, it's necessary to regularly monitor your blood sugar levels and consult with your doctor to ensure proper treatment.

   ● Bone loss and bone death: 

As corticosteroids affect bone density and blood supply to bones, they can quite possibly cause bone loss and even osteonecrosis or death of the bone. Corticosteroids can weaken bones and increase the risk of fractures when used long-term or at high doses. They can also reduce blood supply to the bones, which can lead to osteonecrosis especially in the joints. It's important for people taking corticosteroids to infrom their doctor about any possible side effects and to think about techniques to prevent bone loss, like taking calcium and vitamin D supplements, doing regular weight-bearing exercise, or even taking medicine to maintain bone density.

   ● Weight gain: 

The common side effect of corticosteroids is weight gain. They can contribute to weight gain, particularly around the face, abdomen and back of the neck by increasing appetite and causing fluid retention. It's important to monitor your weight and consult a physician if you have any problems. They might recommend other drugs or dietary changes.

   ● High blood pressure: 

Actually, some people's blood pressure may increase while taking corticosteroids. They can result in potassium loss and sodium retention, which can increase blood pressure by causing fluid retention and an increase in blood volume. People using corticosteroids must routinely check their blood pressure and contact their physician if there are any changes or problems. Effective blood pressure management can require a change in lifestyle along with a medicine changes.

   ● Cataract and Glaucoma: 

High doses or long-term use of corticosteroids can increase the risk of glaucoma and cataracts. Clouding of the lens of the eye causes cataracts, while increased intraocular pressure damages the optic nerve in glaucoma. Regular eye examinations are necessary for corticosteroid patients in order to monitor for these potential side effects.

   ● Mood changes: 

It is true that corticosteroids have an impact on mood; in fact, they often result in irritability, anxiety, changes in mood and depression in some people. Depending on the dosage, duration of use and individual susceptibility, these effects might be different. When taking corticosteroids, it's important to inform your physician when observe your mood changes. There might be require changes in treatment plan.

   ● Infections: 

Corticosteroids will sometimes suppress the immune system, making a person more susceptible to infections especially if they are used regularly or in a high dose. It is possible for infections to develop including bacterial, fungal and even reactivate inactive diseases (e.g., tuberculosis). To reduce these risks, it's important to use corticosteroids carefully and under supervision by a physician.

   ● Skin changes: 

Stretch marks, acne, facial hair growth, thinning of the skin and easy bruising are only some of the skin problems that corticosteroids can produce. In addition, prolonged use may result in skin infections and delayed wound healing. It's important to take them according to prescribed and keep monitoring for any side effects.

Methylprednisolone: Introduction, Uses, Mode of action, Side effects, Doses and Available forms

Introduction:

   Methylprednisolone is one of corticosteroids medicines which mimic the functions of adrenal gland hormone. It is used to treat various conditions such as arthritis, asthma, allergie, inflammation, autoimmune disorders. It works by the suppressing immune system's response to inflammation.

Uses:

  Methylprednisolone is corticosteroids medicines used in various conditions like a inflammation, allerges, arthritis, asthma,skin diseases like a eczema and ringworm, and to suppress the immune response of body in autoimmune disorders like lupus and multiple sclerosis. It is also used in sudden severe allergic reactions of certain drugs ,foods or a other allergens. Never take a Methylprednisolone without suggestions of physician and follow his advice.

If you want to know Methylprednisolone uses In Tamil then click on this.

Other Corticosteroids:

● Prednisolone 

● Dexamethasone 

● Betamethasone 

Mode of action:

   Methylprednisolone is act by suppressing processes of inflammation and immune system response in body. It prevent the production of adrenal gland hormones and substances which require for a immune response and inflammation process, ultimately decrease the symptoms like allergy, swelling, pain and inflammation.

Side effects:

   Like a other corticosteroids Methylprednisolone can have a various side effects. If Methylprednisolone taken for long time can have a serious side effects. Some common side effects of Methylprednisolone is an increase appetite, weight gain, insomnia, mood changes, fluid retention, high blood pressure, increase risk of infections, stomach irritation and change in skin appearance. It is important to use Methylprednisolone only after an advice of physician and discuss any side effect if seen.

Dose:

   Dose of Methylprednisolone is depend on a condition of disease and nature and build of patient. An usually doses of Methylprednisolone can range from as low as 4mg to as high as 48mg. But again Methylprednisolone taken only after a physician advice.

Available Forms:

   Methylprednisolone is available in forms such as a tablets, injections and topicals cream or solution. Specific form being prescribed according to conditions of illness. Follow the route of administration of medications that suggest by a physician.

   

Betamethasone cream: Introduction, Uses, How to use, Side effect

Introduction:

Betamethasone valerate cream is topical corticosteroid. It is highly potent steroid that use to inhibits the release of substances in the body that cause inflammation Betamethasone cream used to treat inflammation and itching used by a number of skin disease like as eczema and psoriasis.

Uses:

Betamethasone cream is used to treat a variety of skin disorders, including dermatitis, psoriasis, and eczema. It functions by decreasing redness, swelling, and itching. It is also used in fungal infections with a anti fungal cream.

How to use?:

   Hand wash: 

To maintain hygiene, wash your hands well with soap and water before using the cream.

   Clean those affected area: 

Use a moderate soap and water solution to gently wash the affected region of skin, then wipe it dry.

   Apply a thin coating:

Using your fingers, squeeze a tiny bit of betamethasone cream and apply it in a thin layer to the affected area. Till it is completely absorbed into the skin, gently and evenly rub it in.

   Repeatedly wash your hands: 

After using the cream will help prevent unintentionally spreading the drug to other parts of your body.

   Frequency of application: 

Follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider regarding the frequency of application. Typically, betamethasone cream is applied once or twice daily, but this may vary depending on the severity of your condition and your healthcare provider's recommendations.

   Avoid bandages or tight clothing: 

Unless directed otherwise by your healthcare provider, avoid covering the treated area with bandages or tight clothing, as this can increase the absorption of the medication into the skin.

   Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, and mucous membranes:

Be careful to avoid getting the cream in your eyes, mouth, or mucous membranes. If accidental contact occurs, rinse the area thoroughly with water.

   Use for the prescribed duration:

Use betamethasone cream for the duration prescribed by your healthcare provider, even if your symptoms improve before then. Stopping treatment prematurely can lead to a recurrence of symptoms.

Monitor for side effects:

Keep an eye out for any signs of irritation or allergic reaction, such as itching, redness, or swelling, and consult your healthcare provider if you experience any adverse effects.

   Application frequency:

Follow concentrate on the guidance your healthcare provider gives you on how often to apply. Applying betamethasone cream once or twice a day is the recommended method; however, this can change based on the severity of your disease and the advice of your healthcare professional.

   Avoid putting tight clothes or bandages:

Bandages or tight clothing should not be covered over the treated area unless your healthcare practitioner instructs you otherwise, as this may enhance the medication's absorption into the skin.

   Use for the advised length of duration:

Even if your symptoms subside before then, apply betamethasone cream for the duration of time that your doctor has suggested. An early stopping of treatment may cause symptoms to occur again.

   Keep watch for these possible adverse effects:

Watch for symptoms of irritation or allergic reaction, such as redness, swelling, or itching, and inform your doctor if you notice any adverse reactions.

Side effects:

Similar to other corticosteroids, betamethasone cream may have side effects that include burning, itching, thinning of the skin, and redness at the application site. Excessive or prolonged application may make these hazards worse. It is recommended that you use it according with medical advice and avoid from applying it to large regions of skin or for prolonged periods of time without a doctor's supervision.

Prednisolone: Uses, Side Effects, Doses and Precautions

Introduction :

    Prednisolone is a corticosteroid drug.It's often used to reduce inflammation in conditions such as arthritis, asthma, allergic reactions, and certain skin conditions.

 

Uses :

    1. Inflammatory Conditions:

Prednisolone is commonly used to treat various inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, lupus, and inflammatory bowel disease.

2. Allergic Reactions:

It can be used to manage severe allergic reactions, including allergic rhinitis and allergic dermatitis.

3. Respiratory Conditions:

Prednisolone is often prescribed for respiratory conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

4.Skin Conditions:

It may be used to treat certain skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis.

5.Autoimmune Diseases:

Prednisolone is used to suppress the immune system in autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus.

Side effects:

Short-Term Side Effects:

Increased appetite, weight gain, mood changes, insomnia, and fluid retention.

Long-Term Side Effects:

Osteoporosis, increased susceptibility to infections, diabetes, cataracts, and adrenal suppression.

Withdrawal Symptoms:

Sudden stopping prednisolone can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, joint pain, and muscle stiffness.

Doses:

Take prednisolone exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider to minimize the risk of side effects.

Precautions:

Monitoring:

Regularly monitor your blood pressure, blood sugar levels, and bone density while taking prednisolone.

Avoid Abrupt Discontinuation:

Gradually taper off the medication under medical supervision to avoid withdrawal symptoms.

Interactions:

Inform your doctor about all other medications, supplements, or herbal remedies you are taking, as prednisolone can interact with other drugs.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:

Consult your healthcare provider before taking prednisolone if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as it may have potential risks to the fetus or infant.

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Remember, this is just a general overview, and it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and guidance regarding the use of prednisolone.