Glucocorticoids

Question 1

What is the mechanism of action of glucocorticoids?

Answer 1

Decreases production of leukotrienes and prostaglandins by inhibiting phospholipase A2 and expression of COX-2

Question 2

List five examples of glucocorticoid drugs

Answer 2

• Hydrocortisone
• Prednisone
• Triamcinolone
• Dexamethasone
• Beclomethasone

Question 3

Give an example of a common pediatric pulmonary disease that can be treated with glucocorticoids

Answer 3

Asthma

Question 4

Glucocorticoids can cause what iatrogenic endocrine disorder?

Answer 4

Cushing’s syndrome

Question 5

What effect does chronic glucocorticoid use have on the musculoskeletal system?

Answer 5

It can cause muscle wasting and lead to osteoporosis

Question 6

What effect can glucocorticoid toxicity have on the skin?

Answer 6

Thin skin and easy bruisability

Question 7

A patient who is on chronic glucocorticoid therapy becomes ill and is found to have very low blood pressure; how might this be related to the medication history?

Answer 7

Long-term glucocorticoid therapy may lead to adrenocortical atrophy and failure to mount a stress response during illness