Corticosteroids

Question 1

Hydrocortisone

Answer 1

Short acting (30 min - 2 hours)

PO, IM/IV

Common route: OTC topical

Question 2

Prednisone

Answer 2

Intermediate acting (few hours)

PO

Question 3

Corticosteroids S/E

Answer 3

1. Weight gain/ metabolism changes
   
   1. Moon face
   2. Buffalo hump
2. Increased appetite
3. Osteoporosis (pulls calcium out of bones)
4. Suppresses immune system leading to increase risk of infection

Question 4

Purpose of corticosteroids

Answer 4

1. Decreases inflammation (itching/swelling)
2. Suppresses the immune system (autoimmune diseases, organ rejection)