Overview
Steroids, also called corticosteroids, are anti-inflammatory medicines used to treat a range of conditions.
They're different from anabolic steroids, which are often used illegally by some people to increase their muscle mass.
Types of steroids
Steroids come in many different forms.
The main types are:
- tablets and liquids - such as prednisolone
- injections (given into joints, muscles or blood vessels) - such as methylprednisolone.
- inhalers - such as beclometasone and fluticasone
- nasal sprays - such as beclometasone and fluticasone
- lotions, gels or creams - such as hydrocortisone
Most steroids are only available on prescription, but a few (such as some creams or nasal sprays) can be bought from pharmacies and shops.
Side effects of steroids
Steroids don't tend to cause significant side effects if they're taken for a short time or at a low dose.
But sometimes they can cause unpleasant side effects, such as an increased appetite, mood changes and difficulty sleeping (insomnia). This is most common with steroid tablets.
The side effects will usually pass once you finish the treatment, but don't stop taking your medicine without speaking to your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on how to gradually reduce your dose if necessary. Stopping a prescribed course of medicine can cause further unpleasant side effects (withdrawal symptoms).
Uses for steroids
Steroids can be used to treat a wide range of conditions, including:
How steroids work
Steroids are a man-made version of hormones normally produced by the adrenal glands which are two small glands found above the kidneys.
Steroids reduce redness and swelling (inflammation). This can help with inflammatory conditions such as asthma and eczema.
Steroids also reduce the activity of the immune system, the body's natural defence against illness and infection.
This can help treat autoimmune condtions, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, which are caused by the immune system mistakenly attacking the body.