Corticosteroids

Question 1

drugs included in this class

Answer 1

• Cortisone
• Prednisone
• Methylprednisolone
• Prednisolone
• Triamcinolone
• Betamethasone

Question 2

MOA

Answer 2

decrease inflammation and suppress immune system

Question 3

route

Answer 3

PO, IV, intraarticular, topical

Question 4

short term indications

Answer 4

disease flare, persistent disease activity despite treatment, when changing treatment (PO or intraarticular)

Question 5

long term indications

Answer 5

• may improve outcomes but but comes with risks

- these risks often outweigh the benefits !!!

Question 6

short term AEs

Answer 6

increase blood glucose, mood changes, fluid retention

Question 7

long term AEs

Answer 7

• osteoporosis
• increased fracture risk
• thin skin
• muscle wasting
• poor wound healing
• adrenal suppression
• Cushing’s disease
• increased risk of infection

Question 8

rehab concerns about corticosteroids

Answer 8

• osteoporosis

- adrenal suppression