What Are Steroids?

Corticosteroids are used in arthritis treatment because of their anti-inflammatory properties, but recommended as a low-dose or short-term treatment when possible to minimize side effects. Corticosteroids are not the same as "anabolic steroids" (performance enhancing drugs being used and abused in sports).

For an In-Depth Explanation of Steroids:

• Facts About Corticosteroids

Corticosteriods are prescribed in widely varying doses depending on the condition and goal of treatment. Used to control inflammation of the joints and organs in diseases such as:

• rheumatoid arthritis
• lupus
• polymyalgia rheumatica
• vasculitis

Potential for serious side effects and adverse reactions increases at high doses or with long-term use of steroids. Doctors can prescribe short-term, high-dose intravenous steroids in some situations, or give shots or injections with drugs such as Triamcinolone (Kenalog) locally into a specific joint for relief.

Corticosteroid Drugs Include:

• Betamethasone (Celestone)
• Cortisone (Cortone)
• Dexamethasone (Decadron)
• Hydrocortisone (Cortef)
• Methylprednisolone (Medrol)
• Prednisolone (Prelone)
• Prednisone (Deltasone)
• Budesonide (Entocort EC) is approved for Crohn's disease treatment and being studied for other arthritis related uses.