Corticosteroids In GI Conditions

Question 1

What are some indications for corticosteroids use related to GI conditions?

Answer 1

For :
- Crohn’s disease
- irritable bowel syndrome
- ulcerative colitis

Question 2

What are the three common medications used for GI conditions in the corticosteroid class?

Answer 2

• Prednisone
• methylprednisolone (Solu-Medrol) — usually IV

Question 3

What are some important points about corticosteroids?

Answer 3

• never stop abruptly (tapper down or can cause big reaction)
• monitor BG when on corticosteroids
• caution with pt with HF

Question 4

How should prednisone be taken?

Answer 4

• Should be taken with milk or food to decrease GI upset
• should be taken in the morning

Question 5

What should be avoided with concurrent use of corticosteroids?

Answer 5

• avoid NSAIDs
• avoid alcohol
• avoid caffeine
• avoid aspirin

To decrease gastric irritation

Question 6

What are some AE with corticosteroids?

Answer 6

• fetal abnormalities
• electrolyte imbalances
• increased blood glucose with diabetes (monitor closely)
• Crushing syndrome
• hypertension
• mood swings

Question 7

What are some contraindications to the use of corticosteroids?

Answer 7

• KDA
• fungal, bacterial infections
• pregnancy
• breast feeding women

Question 8

What are some drug interactions with corticosteroids?

Answer 8

• non k+ sparing diretics (loop diuretics, thiazine) : can lead to hypocalcemia and hypokalemia
• NSAIDs, aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs: increase GI effects
• anti diabetics : decrease drug effect and can increase BG
• oral contraceptives
• anticoagulant
• immunosuppressive drugs: increase immunosuppression

Question 9

What are the three main properties of corticosteroids?

Answer 9

• immunosuppressive effects
• anti inflammatory effect
• vasoconstriction effect (maintains BP)