Corticosteroids (steroid tablets)
Also in: हिन्दी தமிழ் ਪੰਜਾਬੀ ଓଡ଼ିଆ অসমীয়া
Corticosteroids are prescription medicines that act like the hormone cortisol to reduce inflammation and calm the immune system. In tablet form they include prednisolone, methylprednisolone, dexamethasone and deflazacort. They are not the same as body-building steroids, and they must not be stopped suddenly after more than a few weeks.
Pharmacist review in progress. This page is based on the sources listed below and is being checked by our registered pharmacist.
How do Corticosteroids (steroid tablets) work?
They copy cortisol, a hormone made by the adrenal glands, and switch down the signals that cause swelling, redness and allergy. They also weaken the immune system, so infections are easier to catch and blood sugar can rise.
Active ingredients of this type
These active ingredients belong to Corticosteroids (steroid tablets). They are listed A to Z.
- Deflazacort: Deflazacort is a corticosteroid, a prescription medicine that reduces inflammation and calms the immune system.
- Dexamethasone: Dexamethasone is a long-acting corticosteroid, a prescription medicine that reduces inflammation and calms the immune system.
- Methylprednisolone: Methylprednisolone is a corticosteroid, a prescription medicine that reduces inflammation and calms the immune system.
- Prednisolone: Prednisolone is a corticosteroid, a prescription medicine that reduces inflammation and calms the immune system.
Common questions
Are corticosteroids the same as body-building steroids?
No. Corticosteroids copy the hormone cortisol and are used to reduce inflammation and calm the immune system. Body-building steroids are a different kind of hormone. Corticosteroid tablets are taken only on a doctor's prescription.
Why must steroid tablets not be stopped suddenly?
After more than a few weeks, the body's own steroid production slows down. Stopping at once can cause weakness, tiredness, vomiting and a flare of the condition. The doctor lowers the dose gradually. Do not change the dose yourself.
Do steroid tablets cause side effects?
They can, mostly with higher doses or longer use. Examples are weight gain, mood and sleep changes, higher blood sugar, thin bones and more infections. Tell your doctor about any new symptom rather than stopping the tablets yourself.
Sources
- Prednisolone tablets and liquid: about prednisolone. NHS (UK)
- Prednisolone tablets and liquid: how and when to take it. NHS (UK)
- Prednisolone tablets and liquid: side effects. NHS (UK)
- ATC/DDD Index: H02AB Glucocorticoids. WHO Collaborating Centre for Drug Statistics Methodology
- List of drugs prohibited for manufacture and sale through gazette notifications under section 26A of the Drugs & Cosmetics Act 1940. Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO)