Steroids Flashcards
What is the mechanism of action of glucocorticoids?
They mimic the effect of cortisol, which stimulates glycogenolysis, gluconeogenesis, proteinolysis, lipolysis, fat redistribution and hyperglycaemia
What are the side effects of glucocorticosteroid like corticosteroids?
Hypertension Cushingoid features Diabetes Inhibition of osteoblasts and stimulation of osteoclasts causing osteoporosis Avascular necrosis Peptic ulcers Immunosuppression Diabetes
What are the mineralocorticoid effect of corticosteroids?
Hypernatraemia, hypertension, hypokalaemia
What is the pharmacokinetics of corticosteroids?
Can be IV, oral, inhaled, topical or intra articular. Hepatic and renal clearance- decreases with age.
What are the different parts of the adrenal gland and what do they each produce?
Zona glomerulosa- mineralocorticoids
Zona fasciculata- glucocorticoids
Zona reticularis- androgens
Medulla- chromaffin cells produce adrenaline
How do corticosteroids exert their effects?
They bind to cytoplasmic or intranuclear receptors and stimulate transcription
They can also act via membrane receptors and second messenger pathway.
How do corticosteroids inhibit the immune system?
They inhibit B and T cells
Reduce transcription of cytokines
Reduce expression of cell adhesion molecules
Reduce phagocytic action
