Week 12 - Corticosteroids Flashcards
1
Q
What is the mechanism of action the glucocorticoids?
A
Suppress inflammation
* decrease the activity of several immune cells
* decrease synthesis and action of chemical mediators in inflammation
2
Q
Name several corticosteroids
A
- Prednisone
- Prednisolone
- Methylprednisolone
- Dexamethasone
3
Q
Systemic Corticosteroids are contraindicated in the presence of _________
A
active, untreated infection
* may mask indications of infection and decrease immune response
4
Q
Name some reasons for cautious use of the corticosteroids
A
- young or old age
- renal disease
- diabetes
5
Q
Please name all 437 adverse effects of the corticosteroids
A
- Poor healing/atrophy of skin
- Osteoporosis/Fractures
- PUD
- Fluid/electrolyte disturbances/Hypertension
- Agitation/Mood swings
- Adrenal suppression
- weight gain
6
Q
Why is important to slowly taper patients off of corticosteroids?
A
- Long term administration can alter feedback loops
- Sudden withdrawal may cause adrenal insufficiency crisis
