Facts on corticosteroids

Corticosteroids are natural steroid based hormones which are produced in our bodies. There are basically two types of corticosteroids and they differ in the chemical structure. Glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids are these two types. Corticosteroids drugs as available in the market are mainly based on glucocorticoids. However, some drugs have small amount of mineralocorticoids too.

Corticosteroids come in many different forms like tablets, injections. This is an important drug which is used in management of asthma. And thus this drug is also found in inhalers meant for asthma patients. Corticosteroids are also found in creams and lotions available for treating skin conditions like eczema. This drug is also found in nasal sprays which help in reliving the symptoms of allergic rhinitis.

However, corticosteroids must be administered to the patient only after doctor’s prescription. Studies indicate that this drug may be harmful for pregnant females and her fetus. There are some side effects too that are associated with corticosteroids. And the most common side effect is lowered immunity. In some cases, the body stops producing its own natural corticosteroid and thus even after corticosteroid drug therapy is stopped, the body can’t produce the same. Some other common side effects are insomnia, anxiety, mood swings, and suicidal thoughts.