From the Guidelines
Corticosteroids include a wide range of medications such as prednisone, prednisolone, methylprednisolone, dexamethasone, hydrocortisone, fluticasone, budesonide, and beclomethasone, which are used to treat various inflammatory and autoimmune conditions. These medications can be classified into different categories, including glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids. Glucocorticoids, such as prednisone and methylprednisolone, are commonly used to treat inflammatory conditions, while mineralocorticoids, such as fludrocortisone, primarily affect salt and water balance 1.
Some examples of corticosteroids include:
- Oral corticosteroids: methylprednisolone, prednisolone, and prednisone 1
- Inhaled corticosteroids: fluticasone, budesonide, and beclomethasone 1
- Topical corticosteroids: hydrocortisone, fluticasone, and mometasone 1
It's worth noting that the potency and duration of action of corticosteroids can vary, which influences their selection for specific conditions and administration routes. For example, high-potency topical corticosteroids should be used with caution in highly sensitive skin areas, while low to medium potency topical corticosteroids can be used for longer periods to treat chronic conditions 1.
In terms of specific conditions, corticosteroids are commonly used to treat asthma, atopic dermatitis, and other inflammatory conditions. For example, inhaled corticosteroids are a cornerstone of therapy for persistent asthma, while topical corticosteroids are often used to treat atopic dermatitis flare-ups 1.
Overall, corticosteroids are a diverse group of medications that play a crucial role in treating various inflammatory and autoimmune conditions. The choice of corticosteroid depends on the specific condition being treated, as well as the patient's individual needs and medical history.
From the FDA Drug Label
Corticosteroids may exacerbate systemic fungal infections and, therefore, should not be used in the presence of such infections unless they are needed to control drug reactions due to amphotericin B. The use of dexamethasone sodium phosphate injection, USP in active tuberculosis should be restricted to those cases of fulminating or disseminated tuberculosis in which the corticosteroid is used for the management of the disease in conjunction with appropriate antituberculous regimen Other corticoids, including methylprednisolone, hydrocortisone, prednisone, and prednisolone, are considered to be short acting
- Corticosteroids examples include:
From the Research
Corticosteroids Overview
- Corticosteroids are used to treat various conditions, including inflammation and diseases of immune function, due to their anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects 5.
- They are commonly used in the treatment of asthma, COPD, allergic rhinitis, and rheumatoid arthritis 5, 6.
Examples of Corticosteroids
- Prednisone is an example of a corticosteroid used in low doses (less than or equal to 10 mg/d) for the management of rheumatoid arthritis 6.
- Other examples of corticosteroids include those used for topical administration, such as ointments, creams, lotions, gels, foams, oils, solutions, and shampoos 7.
Administration and Usage
- Inhaled corticosteroids are potent synthetic agents used locally in the airways to treat asthma and COPD 5.
- Topical corticosteroids are classified by strength and the risk of adverse effects, and their usage depends on the duration of treatment, frequency of application, skin location, and total surface area treated 7.
- Systemic corticosteroids are used to suppress allergic responses or inflammation, but their prolonged use can cause numerous adverse effects associated with an excess of glucocorticoid activity 5.