corticosteroids

Question 1

indications for glucocorticoids

Answer 1

inflammatory or allergic conditions
reactive airway dz
allergies
AI
*replacement therapy for Addison's dz- needed for pt survival

Question 2

glucocorticoids anti-inflammatory effect

Answer 2

• related to dec production of prostaglandins & leukotrienes
• inhibits phospholipase A2= blocks the release of arachadonic acid
• blocked histamine release & kinin activity

Question 3

principle glucocorticoid hormone in the body, and its effect

Answer 3

cortisol
diverse effect- regulate metabolism of proteins, CHO, & lipids. promote gluconeogenesis in the liver= ince blood glucose levels- provides the body energy to respond to stressors

Question 4

routes of delivery

Answer 4

inhaled- for asthma, allergic rhinitis, non-allergic rhinitis, nasal polyps
topical- skin conditions
ocular- not infx
IV- used in severe allergic response, reactive airway dz, ADDISONIAN CRISIS, septic shock, idiopathic immune thrombocytopenia purpura

Question 5

hydrocortisone, cortisone duration of action

Answer 5

short acting

8-12hrs

Question 6

prednisone, prednisolone, methylprednisolone, triamcinolone duration of action

Answer 6

intermediate acting

18-36hrs

Question 7

paramethasone, dexamethasone, betamethasone duration of action

Answer 7

long acting

24-72+hrs

Question 8

mineralocorticoid effect

Answer 8

the stronger the glucocorticosteroid effect, the weaker the mineralocorticoid effect

Question 9

addisonian crisis

Answer 9

• acute adrenal insufficiency syndrome- lethal

- can occur from abrupt discontinuation of glucocorticoids

Question 10

SXS of addisonian crisis

Answer 10

severe lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea- usu results in dehydration
low blood pressure
confusion
hyponatremia & hypoglycemia
loss of conciosness
convulsions
*fatal is untreated

Question 11

DHEA

Answer 11

CI in pts with pmhx of sex hormone responsive cancers