Glucocorticoids

Question 1

Name two short-acting glucocorticoids

Answer 1

Hydrocortisone

Cortisone

Question 2

Name 4 intermediate acting glucocorticoids

Answer 2

Fludrocortisone
Prednisone
Prednisolone
Triamcinolone

Question 3

Name 2 long acting glucocorticoids

Answer 3

Dexamethasone

Beclamethasone

Question 4

Which glucocorticoid is used in neonatal respiratory distress syndrome?

Answer 4

Dexamethasone

Question 5

What is the MOA of fludrocortisone?

Answer 5

MR receptor - replaces aldosterone

Question 6

What are the risks associated with abrupt withdrawal of glucocorticoids?

Answer 6

Disease flare up

HPA suppression and risk of adrenal crisis

Question 7

List some adverse effects of long-term steroid use

Answer 7

Cushingoid symptoms

- Weight gain
- Facial plethora
- Hyperglycemia/Diabetes
- Risk of infection
- Edema
- Hypertension/CVD
- Euphoria/Mania
- Bone loss
- Peptic ulcers
- Impaired wound healing

Question 8

What 5 drugs are used for the treatment of Cushing’s disease (inhibition of cortisol synthesis)?

Answer 8

Ketaconazole
Etomidate (i.v)
Metyrapone
Mitotane
Mifepristone

Question 9

Which drug used to inhibit cortisol synthesis is safe in pregnancy?

Answer 9

Metyrapone

Question 10

What is the MOA of drugs used to inhibit cortisol production?

Answer 10

CYP11A1 and CYP11B1 inhibitors

Question 11

What is the MOA of mitotane in the treatment of Cushing’s syndrome?

Answer 11

ablation of adrenocortical cells

Question 12

What is the MOA of mifepristone in the treatment of Cushing’s?

Answer 12

Inhibition of GR at high doses