Indications

Replacement therapy in adrenocortical insufficiency, Soft tissue inflammation, Joint inflammations, Corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses

Contraindication

Viral/fungal infections, tubercular or syphilitic lesions, bacterial infections unless used in conjunction with appropriate chemotherapy.

Special Precautions

CHF, hypertension, DM, epilepsy, elderly, patients on prolonged therapy. Gradual withdrawal, pregnancy and lactation.

Side Effects

Sodium and fluid retention. Potassium and calcium depletion. Muscle wasting, weakness, osteoporosis. GI disturbances and bleeding. Increased appetite and delayed wound healing. Bruising, striae, hirsutism, acne, flushing. Raised intracranial pressure, headache, depression, psychosis, menstrual irregularities. Hyperglycaemia, glycosuria, DM, obesity, moon-face, buffalo hump. Suppression of pituitary-adrenocortical system. Growth retardation in childn (prolonged therapy). Increased susceptibility for infection. Topical use: Dermal atrophy, local irritation, folliculitis, hypertrichosis. Inhaled corticosteroids: May cause hoarseness, candidiasis of mouth and throat. Topical application to the eye: Can produce corneal ulcers, raised IOP and reduced visual function. Intralesional injection: Local hypopigmentation of deeply pigmented skin. Intra-articular injection: Joint damage, fibrosis esp in load bearing joints.

Drug Interactions

Thiazides may enhance hyperglycaemia and hypokalaemia caused by corticosteroids. Increased incidence of peptic ulcer or GI bleeding with concurrent NSAIDs admin. Response to anticoagulants altered. Dose of antidiabetics and antihypertensives needs to be increased. Decreases serum conc of salicylates and antimuscarinic agents. Ethanol may enhance gastric mucosal irritation. Reduced efficacy with concurrent use of carbamazepine, phenytoin, primidone, barbiturates and rifampicin. Mutual inhibition of metabolism between ciclosporin and corticosteroids increase plasma conc of both drugs. Enhanced effect in women taking oestrogens or oral contraceptives.

Route of Administration

Oral, IV, Topical

Dosage

As directed by the physician