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Side effects of systemic corticosteroids

Last reviewed dd mmm yyyy. Last edited dd mmm yyyy

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Systemic side effects are more likely with prolonged usage and increased concentration of corticosteroids.

The major side effect of systemic corticosteroids is Cushing's syndrome and in the longterm osteoporosis.

Other systemic side effects include:

  • in children, frequent courses may restrict growth, although this effect is rarely seen with inhaled steroids
  • suppression of pituitary-adrenal axis with risk of withdrawal hypoadrenalism
  • gastrointestinal disorder e.g. peptic ulceration
  • suppression of normal immune and inflammatory responses, masking the normal presentation of disease
  • salt and water retention, possibly leading to heart failure
  • renal potassium loss, leading to muscle weakness

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