Corticosteroids (immunosuppresants)

Question 1

Adrenal Glucocorticoid Meds:

Answer 1

Hydrocortisone, prednisone, dexamethasone, methylprednisolone

Question 2

Adrenal Mineralcorticoid meds:

Answer 2

Fludrocortisone

Question 3

Hydrocortisone

Answer 3

Anti inflammatory, antipruritic, vasoconstrictive
Salt retaining properties
Natural occurring
Used as replacement therapy in states of adrenocortical deficiencies
Water soluble

Question 4

Methylprednisolone

Answer 4

IV
Anti inflammatory, immunosuppressant
Used to treat ACUTE issues
DO NOT GIVE TO INFANTS <28 DAYS OLD

Question 5

Prednisone

Answer 5

Profound and varied metabolic effects, modifies immune response
Replacement therapy
Used for anti inflammatory effects in many disorders
NOT good enough for Addison’s disease
Treatment of autoimmune diseases

Question 6

Dexamethasone

Answer 6

systemic treatment for inflammation, allergic, neoplasticism dzs etc.
Used to treat CEREBRAL EDEMA

Question 7

Fludrocortisone

Answer 7

Causes Na+ reabsorption; H+ & K+ secretion; H2O retention by its effects on distal renal tubules
Partial replacement for Addisons
Caution in pts w/ HF & HTN
Side effect rare

Question 8

NURSING IMPLICATIONS FOR CORTICOSTEROIDS

Answer 8

• INCREASES BLOOD SUGAR
• TAPER OFF (can cause adrenal crisis)
• Take w/ food or milk
• Take at same time everyday
• AVOID NSAIDs & ALCOHOL