Steroids are a type of medication that can be used to treat a variety of conditions. They are different from anabolic steroids, which are often used illegally by some people to increase their muscle mass. Steroids are designed to act like hormones that are made naturally in the human body to reduce inflammation, and are also known as corticosteroids. Some of the conditions that steroids can be used to treat include:
- Arthritis
- Asthma
- Allergic rhinitis and hay fever
- Urticaria (hives)
- Atopic eczema
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Painful and inflamed joints, muscles, and tendons
- Lupus
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) – including Crohns disease and ulcerative colitis
- Giant cell arteritis and polymyalgia rheumatica
- Multiple sclerosis (MS)
Steroids come in many different forms, including tablets, liquids, inhalers, nasal sprays, injections, creams, lotions, and gels. Most steroids are only available on prescription, but a few (such as some creams or nasal sprays) can be bought from pharmacies and shops. Steroids can have side effects, but they do not tend to cause significant side effects if theyre taken for a short time or at a low dose. Some of the side effects of steroids include an increased appetite, mood changes, and difficulty sleeping.
