Steroid side effects you should know about

The term "steroids" usually refers to corticosteroids, such as prednisolone, which reduce inflammation and help control the immune system.

Like all medicines, corticosteroids can cause side effects. Not everyone experiences them, and the risk depends on the type of steroid, the dose, how long it is taken for, and your overall health. Many people taking a short course have few or no side effects.

What are some common steroid side effects?

The likelihood of developing these side effects varies from person to person and depends on the type of steroid treatment.

Short-term vs long-term side effects

Short-term side effects

Short courses of corticosteroids, usually lasting a few days or weeks, are less likely to cause serious side effects.

These side effects are often mild and usually improve once treatment ends.

Long-term side effects

Taking corticosteroids for several months or longer increases the risk of more significant side effects.

Your GP or healthcare professional may recommend regular monitoring if you need long-term steroid treatment.

Do side effects depend on the type of steroid?

Yes. The risk and type of side effects vary depending on how the steroid is taken.

Using steroids exactly as prescribed helps minimise the risk of side effects.

Who is more likely to experience steroid side effects?

Some people have a higher risk of developing side effects from steroids, including those who:

• Take high doses of steroids.

• Need steroid treatment for several months or longer.

• Avoir diabète or prediabetes.

• Have high blood pressure.

• Have osteoporosis or are at risk of bone loss.

• Have glaucoma or cataracts.

• Are older adults.

• Have a weakened immune system.

• Smoke or drink excessive amounts of alcohol.

Your healthcare professional will consider these factors before prescribing steroids and may recommend additional monitoring.

How long do steroid side effects last?

How long side effects last depends on the type of steroid, the dose, and how long it has been taken.

Many short-term side effects, such as increased appetite, mood changes, or difficulty sleeping, improve within days or weeks after treatment finishes.

Long-term side effects, including osteoporosis, cataracts, or changes in blood sugar, may persist or require ongoing treatment.

If you have taken oral steroids for several weeks or longer, do not stop them suddenly. Your healthcare professional will usually recommend reducing the dose gradually to allow your body to start producing its own steroids again.

How can you reduce the risk of steroid side effects?

Résumé

• Steroid side effects vary depending on the type of steroid, the dose, and how long treatment lasts.

• Short courses usually cause few problems, while long-term treatment carries a greater risk of side effects such as weight gain, osteoporosis, and raised blood sugar.

• Using steroids as prescribed and attending regular reviews can help reduce these risks while allowing the medicines to work effectively.