Corticosteroids prescriptions available online

When taken as prescribed, corticosteroids are generally well tolerated. However, they can still cause some side effects. The more common side effects of corticosteroid use include:

• Increased risk of infections, such as oral thrush

• Throat irritation

• Mood swings or behavioral changes

• Temporary pain and soreness at the injection site (steroid injections)

• Increased appetite, water retention or weight gain (typically with steroid tablets)

In rare cases, corticosteroids may cause serious adverse effects. Long-term corticosteroid therapy can also cause significant side effects, especially when steroid medicine is taken at high doses over a longer period. These can include:

• High blood pressure

• High blood sugar

• Facial swelling or puffiness (fluid retention)

• Reduced bone-density

• Allergic reaction

• Withdrawal symptoms

Corticosteroids are generally safe, but there are some risks if you have other preexisting conditions or take certain medications.

Before you take a prescribed corticosteroid, be sure to tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions or issues:

• HIV or AIDs

• Herpes simplex infection

• Tuberculosis

• Diabetes or high blood sugar

• Gastrointestinal problems

• Glaucoma or cataracts

• High blood pressure

• Any kind of infection (viral, fungal, bacterial)

• Heart disease, thyroid conditions, kidney disease, or liver disease

When you begin a new medication, make sure to tell your doctor about any other medications, supplements, or herbs you’re taking. Some medications that might interact with a corticosteroid include:

• Medicine for HIV, AIDs, or hepatitis C

• Antibiotics, antifungal medicine, or antivirals

• Diuretics (water pills)

• Insulin or diabetes medicine

• Seizure medications, such as carbamazepine, fosphenytoin, or oxcarbazepine

• Birth control pills and other hormones

• Blood thinners, such as warfarin

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen