S14.2 Corticosteroids

Question 1

What is the mechanisms of corticosteroids

Answer 1

They are lipid soluble; enter the cell binding to a receptor, act on the nucleus to modulate transcription.
This affects the rate of mRNA expression, causing therapeutic effects.

Question 2

Name the adrenal steroids

Answer 2

Mineralocorticoids (G)
Glucocorticoids (F)
Sex steroids (R)

Question 3

Outline the effects of glucocorticoids

Answer 3

Stimulates glycogenolysis, gluconeogenesis, Redistribution of fat

Question 4

Outline the ADRs of glucocorticoids

Answer 4

Deficiency can cause; hypoglycaemia, weight loss, hypotension.
Excess can cause; Cushing’s, weight gain, hyperglycaemia

Question 5

Outline the mechanism and ADRs of mineralocorticoids

Answer 5

Act on sodium and water balance.
Deficiency; hyponatraemia, hypotension, hyperkalaemia
Excess; hypernatraemia, hypertension, hypokalaemia

Question 6

Give some uses for corticosteroids

Answer 6

Inflammatory disease (e.g IBD, asthma, RA), immunosuppression, Cushing’s disease. 
Can also be used as replacement therapy if there is deficiency or Addison’s