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Nursing Knowledge
Corticosteroids are a type of steroid hormone that are produced by the adrenal glands. They are involved in a wide range of physiological processes, including the stress response, immune response, regulation of inflammation, carbohydrate metabolism, protein catabolism, blood electrolyte levels, and behavior.
2 main types:
Corticosteroid medications mimic the effects of natural corticosteroids and are used to manage a variety of conditions, such as asthma and allergies, but can have significant side effects.
Corticosteroids are used to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system. They are used in a wide variety of conditions, including asthma, COPD, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, multiple sclerosis, allergic reactions, and as part of the treatment protocol for many cancers.
Steroid withdrawal syndrome can occur when corticosteroids are stopped suddenly after prolonged use. Symptoms can include fatigue, body aches, mood swings, and nausea.
Nursing tip: Taper off corticosteroids under supervision rather than stopping abruptly. This allows the body to resume normal cortisol production and prevent steroid withdrawal syndrome.
Adrenal suppression is a condition in which the body is unable to produce sufficient amounts of its own corticosteroids due to the long-term use of corticosteroid medications. If the medication is stopped abruptly, the body can go into adrenal crisis due to lack of its own steroids, which can be life-threatening.
Rinsing the mouth after using an inhaled corticosteroid helps to prevent oral thrush.
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