Glucocorticoid Drugs

Question 1

What do they do?

Answer 1

Suppression of inflammation in high doses

Modulation of glucose metabolism in andrenocortical insuffiency ( low doses)

Question 2

GC metabolic effects

Answer 2

Increases blood glucose, reduces muscle mass, redistribution of fat “ moon face, Potbelly”

Question 3

GC CV effects

Answer 3

Blood pressure falls

Increases circulating red blood cells

Decreases wbc

Question 4

GC effects on stress

Answer 4

Can cause hypotension and hypoglycemia —> circulatory failure and death

Question 5

GC on water and electrolytes

Answer 5

Retention of sodium and water while increasing excretion of potassium

Hypernatrema, hypokalemia and edema

Question 6

GC adverse effects

Answer 6

Adrenal insufficiency
Osteporosis
PCP
Hyperglycemia and glycosuria

Myopathy : arms and legs

Cushing syndrome

Question 7

GC dosing and d/c

Answer 7

Taper over 7 days at 50 %

Highly individualized

Give before 9am and alt day