Corticosteroids are medicines related to cortisol, the hormone the body makes to control inflammation. They are among the most effective anti inflammatory treatments available, and they come in forms that act locally or throughout the body.

What You Will Find Here

Tablets such as prednisolone and dexamethasone
Inhalers and nasal sprays for asthma and allergic rhinitis
Creams and ointments for eczema and skin inflammation
Eye drops and injections, for use under medical direction

How They Are Generally Used

The lowest effective strength for the shortest sensible period
Inhaled and topical forms act locally, with far less body wide effect
Courses of tablets are often tapered rather than stopped abruptly

Precautions

Steroid tablets taken for more than a couple of weeks must never be stopped suddenly. Long term use affects blood sugar, blood pressure, bone strength and infection risk. Strong steroid creams are not for the face or for routine use on children without advice, and they should not be used on infected or fungal rashes. These are prescription medicines and need a doctor deciding both the strength and the duration.

This page is general information only. It is not a substitute for advice from your doctor or pharmacist, and it does not include dosage. Always follow the directions given to you and read the leaflet inside the pack.