 Oral corticosteroids are prescription drugs that reduce inflammation in the body. Doctors prescribe oral corticosteroids for many conditions, including arthritis, asthma, psoriasis, multiple sclerosis, and severe allergic reactions. Examples of oral corticosteroids are prednisone (brand name Orasone), prednisolone (Prelone), and methylprednisolone (Medrol). The most common side effects reported with the short-term (days to weeks) use of oral corticosteroids include a bigger appetite, weight gain, upset stomach, headache, mood changes, and trouble sleeping. Some people may also have upswings in blood sugar and blood pressure. In general, all of these side effects go away after you stop taking corticosteroids. These side effects occur less often if you take smaller doses of the drug. Take corticosteroids with food to reduce stomach upset. Side effects associated with long-term (months to years) oral corticosteroid therapy include weakening of the immune system, elevations in cholesterol levels, and weight gain. These side effects usually improve when you stop taking corticosteroids. Long-term use of corticosteroids may also cause brittle bones, fat deposits on the face and back, thinning of the skin, and cataracts in the eyes. These side effects may improve but usually don't go away completely after stopping the drug. In children, long-term use of oral corticosteroids may cause stunted growth. You should contact your doctor right away if you experience rare side effects such as a skin rash, blurred vision, sweating of your feet or legs, muscle cramps or weakness, severe stomach pain, blood in vomit or stools, or increased thirst or urination. If you've been using an oral corticosteroid long-term, it's important not to stop using it suddenly. Stopping too quickly may result in serious side effects such as headache, fever, vomiting, joint and muscle pain, loss of appetite, fatigue, and low blood pressure. Oral corticosteroids usually have more severe side effects than inhaled corticosteroids or corticosteroid creams. Most healthcare providers monitor their patients closely when they're on corticosteroids. Sources:
Drug Facts and Comparisons. Facts & Comparisons, 2006.
Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiologic Approach. Appleton & Lange, 1999.
Micromedex® Healthcare Series. Thomson Micromedex, 2006.
Medline Plus. Medline, 2006.
This answer prepared 2/8/2001.
This information updated 3/15/2007.
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