| name | Oral Corticosteroids (e.g., Prednisone, Methylprednisolone) |
| classification | Glucocorticoids, Systemic |
| pharmacokinetics | | absorption | Rapidly absorbed from the GI tract. Bioavailability varies slightly between different corticosteroids. | | distribution | Distributed throughout the body, binding to glucocorticoid receptors. | | metabolism | Primarily metabolized in the liver. | | excretion | Excreted primarily in the urine. |
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| suggested dosage | | note | Dosage depends heavily on the specific condition being treated, severity, and individual patient response. This information is for general knowledge and *does not* constitute medical advice. Always follow a physician's instructions. | | example prednisone | e.g., 40-60 mg/day initially in severe cases, tapering gradually over several weeks to avoid adrenal insufficiency. | | example methylprednisolone | e.g., 40-80 mg/day initially in severe cases, tapering gradually over several weeks to avoid adrenal insufficiency. IV administration is also possible for very severe situations. |
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| indications | | 1 | Severe inflammatory conditions (e.g., severe asthma exacerbations, rheumatoid arthritis flares, autoimmune diseases, organ transplantation) | | 2 | Allergic reactions (e.g., anaphylaxis) | | 3 | Certain cancers | | 4 | Certain neurological disorders |
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| safety in pregnancy | | note | Corticosteroids can cross the placenta. Use during pregnancy should be carefully considered by a physician weighing the risks and benefits in each case. They are not generally prescribed in pregnancy unless the condition poses a life-threatening risk to the mother if not treated. | | potential risks | Potential risks include fetal growth retardation, adrenal insufficiency in the newborn, and increased risk of complications in certain pregnancies. |
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| safety in breastfeeding | | note | Corticosteroids can be present in breast milk. Use should be carefully considered and a physician should be consulted for the benefits and risks when breastfeeding. | | potential risks | Potential side effects in the infant are possible. These vary and should be discussed with a doctor. |
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| side effects | | 1 | Hyperglycemia, glucose intolerance | | 2 | Fluid retention, edema | | 3 | Increased appetite, weight gain | | 4 | Osteoporosis, fractures | | 5 | Cushing's syndrome (with prolonged use) | | 6 | Peptic ulcers | | 7 | Immunosuppression, increased risk of infection | | 8 | Mood changes, psychosis | | 9 | Growth retardation (in children) | | 10 | Skin thinning, easy bruising |
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| alternatives | | note | Alternatives to corticosteroids will vary depending on the specific indication. A physician will recommend the best alternative after considering the patient's overall health. | | potential examples | |
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| contraindications | | 1 | Active or untreated peptic ulcer | | 2 | Systemic fungal infections | | 3 | Hypersensitivity to corticosteroids |
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| interactions | | note | Corticosteroids can interact with many other drugs. A physician should review all medications the patient is taking. | | examples | | 1 | Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) | | 2 | Other immunosuppressants | | 3 | Certain antibiotics | | 4 | Anticoagulants | | 5 | Diuretics |
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| warnings and precautions | | 1 | Tapering is necessary to avoid adrenal insufficiency when stopping prolonged use | | 2 | Monitor blood glucose closely during use, especially in diabetic patients | | 3 | Monitor for signs of infection | | 4 | Use caution in patients with cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, or other risk factors. |
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| additional information | Patients should follow their physician's instructions carefully for dosage, duration of therapy and tapering instructions to avoid complications. |
| patient specific considerations | | age | Age 25 years is relatively low risk regarding side effects. | | weight | 70 kg is considered a healthy weight and is not a factor in dosing unless there are other specific health issues. |
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