Corticosteroids in Cancer Therapy: Uses & Types

The human body creates steroids called corticosteroids, which help control different bodily functions. The cortisol-based steroids used in the treatment of cancer differ from illegal anabolic steroids used by some athletes and bodybuilders.

Types

• Doctor most commonly prescribe the following cortisol-based steroids to cancer patients: cortisone, dexamethasone, prednisolone, hydrocortisone, and methylprednisolone.

Uses

• Cancer patients use steroids for the following reasons: as supplements to chemotherapy, to improve appetite, to reduce chemotherapy-induced nausea and sickness, to ease inflammation, and diminish the body̵7;s immune response.

Forms

• Cancer patients can take steroids in the following forms: tablets, syrups, intramuscular injections and intravenous injections. The dosage of the steroid depends on the type and stage of cancer.

Side Effects

• The most common side effects of corticosteroids include: indigestion, water retention, high blood sugar, mood changes, vision problems, and vulnerability to infections.

Warning

• Cancer patients shouldn̵7;t stop taking steroids without consulting their doctors. The body needs to adjust to lower steroid doses before you can stop taking them completely. Never ̶0;double up̶1; if you forget a dose.