Corticosteriods for Chronic Pain

Overview
Corticosteroids are a class of prescription drugs approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat inflammation. Corticosteroids are sometimes used to treat inflammation in people with certain types of chronic pain.

Corticosteroids include Prednisone, Prednisolone, Methylprednisolone, Hydrocortisone, and Cortisone. It is believed that Corticosteroids work by suppressing immune system activity.

How do I take it?
Corticosteroids may be administered orally, topically as creams or ointments for rashes, or by injection into veins, joints, skin or muscles. Take Corticosteroids exactly as prescribed by the physician.

Side effects
Common side effects of Corticosteroids include high blood sugar, fluid retention, rounding of the face known as “moon face,” insomnia, euphoria, depression, anxiety, and mania.

Rare but serious side effects caused by Corticosteroids include increased susceptibility to infection, weight gain, mood or vision changes, trouble sleeping, and, in children, slowed growth.