Side effects of short-term oral corticosteroids

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Clinical Medicine
• Patient Safety

Background:

• Short-term corticosteroids (CSs) are commonly prescribed for acute conditions.
• Potential risks associated with short-term CSs are often not discussed in standard medical literature.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight that side effects from short-term corticosteroids, though uncommon, can occur and may be serious.
• To inform healthcare providers about the infrequent but significant risks of short-term CS use.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature search of Medline (1985-2006) and review of major medical textbooks.
• Consultation with clinical specialists and physician questionnaires to validate findings on CS risks.
• Data collection involved literature review, expert consultation, and physician surveys.

Main Results:

• Short-term corticosteroids are generally safe, but rare cases of avascular necrosis and fatal varicella-zoster have been reported.
• Unpredictable, severe mood changes and psychotic reactions can occur with short-term CS use.
• Most short-term CS treatments are uneventful, but potential serious adverse events exist.

Conclusions:

• Patients must be fully informed of all material risks and treatment alternatives associated with short-term CSs.
• Physicians should ensure thorough documentation and obtain patient consent.
• Minimizing CS dosage, frequency, and duration is crucial; a 1-week course is generally safe, barring specific contraindications.