Corticosteroids for Heart Disease

Overview
Corticosteroids are synthetic hormones that suppress immune system response. Corticosteroids are believed to work by inhibiting or blocking inflammatory responses within the body. Corticosteroids may be prescribed to control inflammation in cases of myocarditis.

Cortisone, prednisone, prednisolone, dexamethasone, and methylprednisolone are examples of corticosteroids.

How do I take it?
Corticosteroids may be taken orally or administered via injection.

Side effects
When taken orally for a short time, corticosteroids can cause side effects including high blood sugar, fluid retention, rounding of the face known as “moon face,” insomnia, euphoria, depression, anxiety, and mania.

Longer-term effects of taking oral corticosteroids can include joint softening or destruction, diabetes, weight gain around the trunk, dementia, osteoporosis that may result in fractures, Cushing’s syndrome, glaucoma and cataracts.

People taking oral corticosteroids are more susceptible to infection due to the immunosuppressive nature of the drug. Avoid exposure to people who are sick and wash hands frequently while taking corticosteroids.

Taken orally, corticosteroids can cause psychological side effects such as mood swings, aggression, agitation, or nervousness. Notify your doctor if these changes become intense or difficult to manage.

Rarely, corticosteroids can also cause allergic reactions. Get medical help immediately if you experience difficulty breathing or swelling in the face, throat, eyes, lips, or tongue.

For more details about this treatment, visit:
Corticosteroids – Cleveland Clinic
http://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs_devi...

Corticosteroid (Oral Route, Parenteral Route) – Mayo Clinic
http://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/cor...