TOPICS
Corticosteroids | Side Effects | Resources and Research News
Related PubMed Abstracts: Corticosteroids AND Lymphocytes AND Apoptosis
Corticosteroids, including Prednisone, Prednisolone, Methylprednisolone and Dexamethasone are a group of synthetic hormones closely related to cortisol (a glucocorticoid), a natural hormone produced in the adrenal cortex. Sometimes referred to as steroids.
Uses: The treatment of lymphomas and other blood cancers. It is also used to suppress graft versus host disease, a condition that is associated with stem cell transplant. When used in combination with chemotherapy, steroids may enhance the killing of lymphoma cells, and also help mitigate (reduce) fatigue, nausea, and loss of appetite associated with chemotherapy.
Common side-effects: Increased risk of infection, increases in blood pressure, peptic ulcers, diabetes mellitus, osteoporosis, and depression.
What does natural cortisol do? Manages the salt/water balance in the body, regulates stress, regulates carbohydrates, fat, and protein metabolism.
Mechanism related to lymphoma treatment: Corticosteroids, and drugs that mimic them, reduce inflammation by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins. These drugs also impede or directly reduce the number of white blood cells by inducing apoptosis.
Apoptosis - overview
Possible Side Effects
Side effects depend on dose and duration. Side effects can be minimized by following your doctor's directions and following the prescribed dose, and weaning instructions when coming off these powerful drugs.
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Acne |
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Adrenal suppression and crisis |
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Appetite increase; weight gain |
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Cataracts |
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Diabetes |
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Fat deposits in face, chest, stomach, and upper back |
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High blood pressure |
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Infection -- susceptibility to |
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Muscle weakness |
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Osteoporosis |
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Psychological problems such as depression |
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Stomach ulcers |
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Thinning of the skin |
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Weight gain |
Coming off corticosteroids
Your doctor may advise you to gradually reduce the dose of corticosteroids to allow the adrenal glands to resume natural cortisol production. Stopping abruptly can can result in adrenal insufficiency.
When corticosteroids are taken in low doses for long periods of time, gradual tapering might be advised for months or years -- lowered by as little as one milligram at a time.
About steroid withdrawal syndrome (rebound effect) -- This is an exaggerated response to removal of the drug. Can result in muscle pain, fever, and joint pain. Rebound effects can make it difficult for your doctor to distinguish between the disease and withdrawal symptoms.
Recommended Resources
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About Corticosteriods About.com
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Corticosteroids, Cancer.org PDF
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Steroid withdrawal medicinenet.com
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Potential side effects of prednisone drugs.com
