Corticosteroids – action, indications, side effects

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Under the name of corticosteroids (glucocorticosteroids) are steroid hormones produced in the banded and reticular layers of the adrenal cortex under the influence of the pituitary hormone – adrenocorticotropin (ACTH). They include: cortisol, corticosterone, and cortisone. These hormones exhibit very strong and various effects (e.g. anti-inflammatory, anti-swelling, antiallergic, immunosuppressive, regulating the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins and fats), which are used in the treatment of various diseases. As a consequence, corticosteroids are also drugs with anti-inflammatory, antiallergic and immunosuppressive effects and correspond to the hormones of the adrenal glands produced by the body.

Corticosteroids – action

Steroids are hormones made in the adrenal glands (paired organs in the upper poles of the kidneys). Before they trigger their effects, steroid molecules are transported by the SBP protein to the nucleus of the cell, where they can influence protein synthesis, increasing or inhibiting it. Due to the fact that they inhibit the formation of arachidonic acid – which serves as a matrix for the production of inflammatory transmitters – their use is very wide.

Corticosteroids are used in treatment autoimmune diseases. They are the basis treatment in the prevention of transplant rejection. They are often used in dermatology, in skin diseases that are resistant to other preparations and treatment methods. They are used in treatment severe allergic reactions to anaphylactic shock, in asthma, Crohn’s disease or systemic lupus erythematosus. Cortisol, the main natural steroid, increases blood glucose levels, retains water in the body and stores energy in the form of adipose tissue. It is also called the stress hormone because it stimulates the body to fight back.

Corticosteroids as inhaled drugs can be used through the Inhalation Chamber with Cross Valve Zeffiro technology, which is available at Medonet Market.

Corticosteroids – side effects

The cortisol derivatives used in the treatment have a modified chemical structure, therefore their action is stronger than the natural ones corticosteroids. Among the most popular side effects (especially in chronic systemic or topical application) the following are listed:

  1. carbohydrate disorders, diabetes,
  2. disorders of protein and lipid metabolism,
  3. swelling
  4. stretch marks on the skin,
  5. central obesity,
  6. muscle atrophy, muscle weakness,
  7. weakened immunity and severe infections,
  8. loss of calcium from bones and secondary osteoporosis,
  9. growth disorders in children,
  10. inhibition of the natural function of the adrenal glands.

Corticosteroids and weight gain

Corticosteroids – due to glucose metabolism and stimulation of appetite – contribute to the formation of obesity having a rather specific form. As a result of taking corticosteroids there is a loss of muscle mass (especially of the limbs) and the development of fatty tissue on the torso. Additionally fat tissue it is deposited in the neck area (the so-called buffalo neck is formed).

1 Comment

  1. Samahani nina shida na prednisolone nimekuw dependent na nataka kuacha but inashindikana naomba msaada namba yang ni 0629090435 whatsapp

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