| name | Corticosteroids |
| classification | Anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressant |
| pharmacokinetics | Corticosteroids are rapidly absorbed, primarily from the gastrointestinal tract. They are metabolized primarily in the liver and excreted in the urine. Absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion rates can vary significantly depending on the specific corticosteroid, route of administration (oral, intravenous, topical, inhaled), and individual patient factors. For example, topical corticosteroids have minimal systemic absorption, while oral corticosteroids have significant systemic effects. |
| dosage | Corticosteroid dosages vary widely and are determined by the treating physician based on the specific condition being treated, route of administration, and the patient's individual needs. Following the prescribed dosage is crucial. A generalized dosage for a 25-year-old male weighing 70 kg cannot be provided without clinical context. |
| indications | | 1 | Inflammation (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, asthma, inflammatory bowel disease) | | 2 | Allergies (e.g., severe allergic reactions) | | 3 | Autoimmune disorders (e.g., lupus, multiple sclerosis) | | 4 | Eye conditions | | 5 | Skin conditions (e.g., eczema, psoriasis) | | 6 | Organ transplant rejection | | 7 | Certain cancers | | 8 | Poison ivy reactions |
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| safety in pregnancy | Corticosteroids should be used during pregnancy only when clearly medically necessary and under strict medical supervision. Potential risks to the developing fetus should be carefully weighed against the benefits of treatment. |
| safety in breastfeeding | Corticosteroids can be transferred to breast milk. Use of these drugs in breastfeeding mothers should be carefully considered and, if necessary, only done under medical supervision, carefully weighing the benefits of treatment against the potential risks to the infant. |
| side effects | | 1 | Cushing's syndrome (moon face, buffalo hump) | | 2 | Osteoporosis | | 3 | Hyperglycemia | | 4 | Increased susceptibility to infections | | 5 | Peptic ulcers | | 6 | Fluid retention | | 7 | Mood changes (depression, anxiety) | | 8 | Sleep disturbances | | 9 | High blood pressure | | 10 | Weight gain | | 11 | Thinning skin | | 12 | Easy bruising | | 13 | Growth retardation (especially in children) |
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| alternative treatments | |
| contraindications | | 1 | Hypersensitivity to corticosteroids | | 2 | Active or suspected infection | | 3 | Recent or suspected peptic ulcer disease | | 4 | Certain systemic fungal infections | | 5 | Severe uncontrolled hypertension |
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| drug interactions | Corticosteroids may interact with several medications, including certain diuretics, potassium supplements, and medications affecting the liver or kidney. A complete list of potential interactions should be confirmed with a physician. |
| warnings and precautions | | 1 | Gradual tapering of corticosteroids is usually required to avoid adrenal insufficiency. Sudden cessation of the drug may lead to serious symptoms. | | 2 | Patients with a history of peptic ulcers should be carefully monitored for the development of these conditions. | | 3 | Patients on long-term corticosteroids should be regularly monitored for the development of side effects, such as osteoporosis, glaucoma, and cataracts. | | 4 | Use with caution in patients with diabetes or other metabolic disorders. | | 5 | Inform your physician about all medications and supplements being taken. |
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| additional information | Corticosteroids are powerful medications with significant potential benefits and risks. They should be used only under the direct supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Individual responses to treatment vary, and your doctor will monitor your progress to ensure your treatment plan is effective and safe. |
| patient profile | |
