Glucocorticoids

Glucocorticoids is a group of hormones and medications with strong effects on inflammation, immunity, glucose and protein metabolism. They include cortisol and synthetic drugs such as prednisolone and dexamethasone.

Metabolic Context

These medicines can raise appetite and glucose; they must not be stopped abruptly. Food and recovery may improve treatment tolerance, but with glucocorticoids it is especially important to monitor glucose, blood pressure, fluid retention, muscle weakness, infection risk and any tapering plan with a clinician.