Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids
Department of Pharmacology
Department of Pharmacology
Types of Steroids
1.Corticosteroids (Glucocorticoids and Mineralocorticoids)
1. Glucocorticoids: Affect metabolism, immune
response, and inflammation.
1. Examples: Cortisol, Prednisone,
Dexamethasone, Hydrocortisone.
2. Mineralocorticoids: Regulate salt and water
balance.
1. Example: Aldosterone, Fludrocortisone.
Steroids
Steroids
Steroids are fast catching up with antibiotics
as the most abused class of drugs today
High doses of corticosteroids and
other immunosuppressive agents may cause AIDS
Anatomy
Anatomy
 An inner medulla,
An inner medulla, is a source
is a source
of catecholamine – adrenaline
of catecholamine – adrenaline
and nor-adrenaline
and nor-adrenaline
 Chromaffin cell is the principal
Chromaffin cell is the principal
cell type
cell type
 Medulla is richly innervated by
Medulla is richly innervated by
sympathetic fibres and is
sympathetic fibres and is
considered as extension of
considered as extension of
sympathetic nervous system
sympathetic nervous system
 Medulla develops from
Medulla develops from
ectoderm (neural crest)
ectoderm (neural crest)
 An outer cortex,
An outer cortex, which
which
secretes several classes of
secretes several classes of
steroid hormones including
steroid hormones including
Glucocorticoids
Glucocorticoids and
and
Mineralocorticoids
Mineralocorticoids
 Three different concentric
Three different concentric
zones of cells that differ in
zones of cells that differ in
major steroid hormones they
major steroid hormones they
secrete
secrete
 Cortex develops from
Cortex develops from
mesoderm
mesoderm
History
History
 1855 – Addison`s disease
1855 – Addison`s disease
 1856 – Adrenal glands essential for life
1856 – Adrenal glands essential for life
 1930 – Cortex > medulla
1930 – Cortex > medulla
 1932 – Cushing’s syndrome
1932 – Cushing’s syndrome
 1952 – Aldosterone
1952 – Aldosterone
Adrenal Cortex
Adrenal Cortex
 The adrenal cortex is a factory of steroid hormones
The adrenal cortex is a factory of steroid hormones
 10 – 30 different steroids are synthesized from this
10 – 30 different steroids are synthesized from this
tissue, but two classes are of importance
tissue, but two classes are of importance
Steroid Class
Steroid Class Prototype
Prototype Physiological effect
Physiological effect
Mineralocorticoid
Mineralocorticoid Aldosterone (z. glomerulosa)
Aldosterone (z. glomerulosa) Na, K and water
Na, K and water
homeostasis
homeostasis
Glucocorticoid
Glucocorticoid Hydrocortisone or cortisol (z. fasciculata)
Hydrocortisone or cortisol (z. fasciculata)
Corticosterone
Corticosterone
Glucose and many
Glucose and many
other homeostasis
other homeostasis
Adrenal cortex also produces sex steroids – Androgens,
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) – z. reticularis
Biosynthesis
Biosynthesis
 Synthesized from cholesterol
Synthesized from cholesterol
through a series of enzyme-
through a series of enzyme-
mediated transformations
mediated transformations
 ACTH
ACTH stimulates adrenal
stimulates adrenal
steroid synthesis
steroid synthesis
 Aldosterone synthesis is not
Aldosterone synthesis is not
stimulated by ACTH but by
stimulated by ACTH but by
angiotensin II, although ACTH
angiotensin II, although ACTH
does stimulate synthesis of
does stimulate synthesis of
aldosterone precursors
aldosterone precursors
 Circulating Potassium exerts a
Circulating Potassium exerts a
permissive effect on
permissive effect on
angiotensin II stimulation; high
angiotensin II stimulation; high
potassium enhances and low
potassium enhances and low
potassium diminishes
potassium diminishes
Steroid Biosynthesis - contd.
Steroid Biosynthesis - contd.
Basal Secretion
Basal Secretion
Group
Group Hormone
Hormone Daily
Daily
Glucocorticoids
Glucocorticoids Cortisol
Cortisol
Corticosterone
Corticosterone
5 – 30 mg
5 – 30 mg
2 – 5 mg
2 – 5 mg
Mineralocorticoids
Mineralocorticoids Aldosterone
Aldosterone
11- deoxycorticosterone
11- deoxycorticosterone
5 – 150 mcg
5 – 150 mcg
Trace
Trace
Sex Hormones
Sex Hormones
Androgen
Androgen
Progestogen
Progestogen
Oestrogen
Oestrogen
DHEA
DHEA
Progesterone
Progesterone
Oestradiol
Oestradiol
15 – 30 mg
15 – 30 mg
0.4 – 0.8 mg
0.4 – 0.8 mg
Trace
Trace
Regulation of Synthesis
Regulation of Synthesis
• Synthesized and
released under
influence of ACTH - Ant.
Pituitary (HPA axis)
• Regulated by CRH
from hypothalamus
and by feedback
levels of blood
concentrations
1.
1. Control by circadian
Control by circadian
rhythm (Diurnal
rhythm (Diurnal
rhythm) – morning
rhythm) – morning
rise
rise
2.
2. Stress:
Stress:
hypoglycaemia,
hypoglycaemia,
physical stress etc.
physical stress etc.
Regulation of Synthesis - Others
Regulation of Synthesis - Others
Diurnal variation of Cortisol
Diurnal variation of Cortisol
Glucocorticoids - MOA
Glucocorticoids - MOA
 Not stored:
Not stored:

rate of synthesis = rate of release
rate of synthesis = rate of release
 Synthesize rhythmically and controlled by
Synthesize rhythmically and controlled by
irregular pulses of ACTH, influenced by light and
irregular pulses of ACTH, influenced by light and
major pulses occur early in the morning and
major pulses occur early in the morning and
after meals
after meals
 Glucocorticoids act via their receptors located in
Glucocorticoids act via their receptors located in
nucleus (GR)
nucleus (GR)
 GRs are widely distributed and located almost in
GRs are widely distributed and located almost in
all cells of the body
all cells of the body
 They are made up of almost 800 amino acids
They are made up of almost 800 amino acids
Glucocorticoids - MOA
Glucocorticoids - MOA
 GR receptors are located in the cytoplasm
GR receptors are located in the cytoplasm
 One GR receptor has a DNA binding domain and a
One GR receptor has a DNA binding domain and a
ligand binding domain along with stabilizing proteins
ligand binding domain along with stabilizing proteins
(HSP 90 and HSP 70)
(HSP 90 and HSP 70)
 This receptor is incapable of activating transcription
This receptor is incapable of activating transcription
 Binding of free steroid molecule to GR forms an unstable
Binding of free steroid molecule to GR forms an unstable
compound
compound
 Therefore HSP and other proteins get dissociated
Therefore HSP and other proteins get dissociated
 The S+GR complex enters the nucleus and binds to
The S+GR complex enters the nucleus and binds to
Glucocorticoids response element (GRE) on gene and
Glucocorticoids response element (GRE) on gene and
regulate transcription by RNA polymerase II and others
regulate transcription by RNA polymerase II and others
 The resulting mRNA is transported to cytoplasm for
The resulting mRNA is transported to cytoplasm for
production of protein and bring about final response
production of protein and bring about final response
Glucocorticoids - MOA
Glucocorticoids - MOA
Actions
Actions
Numerous and widespread actions:
Numerous and widespread actions:
 Carbohydrate, lipid and protein metabolism
Carbohydrate, lipid and protein metabolism
 Fluid and electrolyte balance
Fluid and electrolyte balance
 Normal functioning of CVS, immune system, kidneys, skeletal muscles and nervous system
Normal functioning of CVS, immune system, kidneys, skeletal muscles and nervous system
 Provides resistance to stress and noxious stimuli and environmental changes
Provides resistance to stress and noxious stimuli and environmental changes
 Permits and facilitates the actions of other hormones
Permits and facilitates the actions of other hormones
 Direct Actions
Direct Actions
 Permissive Actions
Permissive Actions
• Lipolytic effects
• Effect on BP
• Effect on bronchial muscles
• (e.g.,sympathomimetic amine)
Actions of Corticosteroids -
Actions of Corticosteroids -
Mineralocorticoid
Mineralocorticoid
 Aldosterone is the prototype of mineralocorticoid effects
Aldosterone is the prototype of mineralocorticoid effects
 Acts on the distal tubule to enhance absorption of Na+
Acts on the distal tubule to enhance absorption of Na+
 Increase excretion of K+ and H
Increase excretion of K+ and H
 Similar effects occur in colon, sweat gland and salivary
Similar effects occur in colon, sweat gland and salivary
gland
gland
 Deficiency of mineralocorticoid action leads to
Deficiency of mineralocorticoid action leads to –
–
dilutional hyponatraemia, hyperkalamia, acidosis,
dilutional hyponatraemia, hyperkalamia, acidosis,
massive loss of Na+ and decreased EFC volume
massive loss of Na+ and decreased EFC volume
(essential for survival)
(essential for survival)
 Hyperaldosterinism:
Hyperaldosterinism: Positive Na+ balance, expansion of
Positive Na+ balance, expansion of
ECF, increased plasma Na, hypokalaemia, alkalosis and
ECF, increased plasma Na, hypokalaemia, alkalosis and
progressive rise in BP – hypertension, myocardial
progressive rise in BP – hypertension, myocardial
fibrosis etc.
fibrosis etc.
Glucocorticoid actions -
Glucocorticoid actions -
Carbohydrate & protein metabolism
Carbohydrate & protein metabolism
 Profound effect on carbohydrate and protein metabolism
Profound effect on carbohydrate and protein metabolism
– aimed at protecting glucose dependent tissues (brain
– aimed at protecting glucose dependent tissues (brain
and heart)
and heart)
 Promotes glycogen deposition in liver and stimulate it to
Promotes glycogen deposition in liver and stimulate it to
form glucose from amino acids – gluconeogenesis
form glucose from amino acids – gluconeogenesis
 In peripheral tissues decreases utilization of glucose,
In peripheral tissues decreases utilization of glucose,
increase protein breakdown and activate lipolysis – form
increase protein breakdown and activate lipolysis – form
amino acids and glycerol for gluconeogenesis
amino acids and glycerol for gluconeogenesis
 All these results in -
All these results in -

Diabetes like stat resistant to insulin – increased glucose release
Diabetes like stat resistant to insulin – increased glucose release
from liver + decreased peripheral glucose utilization
from liver + decreased peripheral glucose utilization

Negative Nitrogen balance (catabolic effect) – amino acid used
Negative Nitrogen balance (catabolic effect) – amino acid used
up in gluconeogenesis – increased urea production
up in gluconeogenesis – increased urea production

Mobilization of amino acids – muscles, thinning of bone and skin
Mobilization of amino acids – muscles, thinning of bone and skin
Actions:
Actions: Carbohydrate and protein metabolism
Carbohydrate and protein metabolism
 Gluconeogenesis
Gluconeogenesis

Peripheral actions
Peripheral actions (mobilize AA & glucose and glycogen)
(mobilize AA & glucose and glycogen)

Hepatic actions
Hepatic actions
 Peripheral utilization of glucose
Peripheral utilization of glucose
 Glycogen deposition in liver
Glycogen deposition in liver
(activation of hepatic glycogen synthase)
(activation of hepatic glycogen synthase)
Negative nitrogen balance & hyperglycaemia
Fat Metabolism
Fat Metabolism
 Redistribution of fats in different areas of the
Redistribution of fats in different areas of the
body
body
 Due to permissive facilitation of effects of other
Due to permissive facilitation of effects of other
agents – GH, glucagons, Adr, thyroxine and
agents – GH, glucagons, Adr, thyroxine and
insulin
insulin

Deposition of fats in face, neck and shoulder – moon
Deposition of fats in face, neck and shoulder – moon
face/buffalo hump
face/buffalo hump

Glucocorticoids facilitated hormone sensitive lipolysis
Glucocorticoids facilitated hormone sensitive lipolysis
action of GH and Adr. + Glucocorticoids mediated
action of GH and Adr. + Glucocorticoids mediated
increased insulin = net result is insulin mediated
increased insulin = net result is insulin mediated
lipogenesis and fat deposition
lipogenesis and fat deposition

Peripheral adipocytes are less sensitive to insulin, but
Peripheral adipocytes are less sensitive to insulin, but
in face and neck predominant action – fat deposition
in face and neck predominant action – fat deposition
Actions of Glucocorticoids
Actions of Glucocorticoids
 Water excretion:
Water excretion:

Glucocorticoids play important role in maintaining normal GFR - in
Glucocorticoids play important role in maintaining normal GFR - in
adrenal insufficiency capacity to excrete water is lost – water
adrenal insufficiency capacity to excrete water is lost – water
intoxication
intoxication
 Calcium Balance:
Calcium Balance:

Decrease absorption of Ca++ in GIT and increased excretion – calcium
Decrease absorption of Ca++ in GIT and increased excretion – calcium
depletion -
depletion - osteoporosis
osteoporosis
 Skeletal muscle:
Skeletal muscle:

Normal muscular activity needs Glucocorticoids at its optimum level
Normal muscular activity needs Glucocorticoids at its optimum level

Excess level leads to muscular weakness and wasting
Excess level leads to muscular weakness and wasting

Muscular weakness occurs in both Hypocorticism (due to hypodynamic
Muscular weakness occurs in both Hypocorticism (due to hypodynamic
circulation) and hypercorticism – due to hypokalaemia
circulation) and hypercorticism – due to hypokalaemia
 CNS:
CNS:

Euphoria – in pharmacological doses
Euphoria – in pharmacological doses

Addison's disease – apathy, depression and psychosis
Addison's disease – apathy, depression and psychosis

High doses – induce seizure
High doses – induce seizure
Actions of Glucocorticoids
Actions of Glucocorticoids
 CVS:
CVS: Permissive role on pressor effect with Adr and angiotensin
Permissive role on pressor effect with Adr and angiotensin

Maintain tone of arterioles and myocardial contractility
Maintain tone of arterioles and myocardial contractility

Adrenal insufficiency leads to low cardiac output and arteriolar dilatation
Adrenal insufficiency leads to low cardiac output and arteriolar dilatation
and poor response to adrenaline
and poor response to adrenaline

Cardiovascular collapse – along with mineralocorticoids
Cardiovascular collapse – along with mineralocorticoids
 Blood and lymphoid tissues:
Blood and lymphoid tissues:

Destruction of lymphoid tissue – modest in normal persons
Destruction of lymphoid tissue – modest in normal persons

In presence of malignancy of lymphatic cells – lytic actions are
In presence of malignancy of lymphatic cells – lytic actions are
significant (apoptosis) – used in lymphomas
significant (apoptosis) – used in lymphomas (Basis of Use)
(Basis of Use)

Minor effects on haemoglobin and RBCs – protect against haemolysis
Minor effects on haemoglobin and RBCs – protect against haemolysis
of RBCs –
of RBCs – Increase in number of RBCs
Increase in number of RBCs

Decreases the numbers of circulating lymphocytes, monocytes,
Decreases the numbers of circulating lymphocytes, monocytes,
eosinophils and basophils but increases Polymorphs
eosinophils and basophils but increases Polymorphs
Glucocorticoids – anti-inflammatory
Glucocorticoids – anti-inflammatory
and immunosuppressive effects
and immunosuppressive effects
 Suppress inflammatory response to all noxious stimuli:
Suppress inflammatory response to all noxious stimuli:
Pathogens, chemical,physical and immune mediated
Pathogens, chemical,physical and immune mediated
stimuli, hypersensitivity
stimuli, hypersensitivity
 Underlying cause of disease is not corrected
Underlying cause of disease is not corrected
 Reduction in cardinal signs of inflammation
Reduction in cardinal signs of inflammation
 Anti-inflammatory effects are non—specific and covers
Anti-inflammatory effects are non—specific and covers
all components of inflammation:
all components of inflammation:

Effects on concentration, distribution and functions of peripheral
Effects on concentration, distribution and functions of peripheral
leukocytes – increased neutrophils & their activity
leukocytes – increased neutrophils & their activity

In macrophages: reduction of arachidonic acid metabolites
In macrophages: reduction of arachidonic acid metabolites
(mediators) like PG, LT and PAF synthesis that results from
(mediators) like PG, LT and PAF synthesis that results from
activation of phospholipase A2
activation of phospholipase A2
Basis of exogenous use of most clinical uses
Basis of exogenous use of most clinical uses
Glucorticoids - Multiple
Mechanisms
 Recruitment of WBC & monocyte - macrophage into
Recruitment of WBC & monocyte - macrophage into
affected area & elaboration of chemotactic substances
affected area & elaboration of chemotactic substances
 Lipocortin: decreased production of PG, LT and PAF
Lipocortin: decreased production of PG, LT and PAF
 Negative regulation of COX 2: inducible PG
Negative regulation of COX 2: inducible PG
production
production
 Negative regulation of genes in cytokines of
Negative regulation of genes in cytokines of
macrophages, endothelial cells and lymphocytes:
macrophages, endothelial cells and lymphocytes:
production of IL (1, 2, 3, 6), TNF
production of IL (1, 2, 3, 6), TNFα
α, GM-CSF etc. –
, GM-CSF etc. –
fibroblast proliferation and T-lymphocyte function –
fibroblast proliferation and T-lymphocyte function –
interference with chemotaxis
interference with chemotaxis
Contd.
Contd.
 In endothelial cells-Endothelial leucocyte adhesion
In endothelial cells-Endothelial leucocyte adhesion
molecule
molecule (ELAM)
(ELAM) and other
and other CAM
CAM are inhibited –
are inhibited –
adhesion and localization of leucocytes interfered
adhesion and localization of leucocytes interfered
 Release of histamine from basophils is inhibited
Release of histamine from basophils is inhibited
 Decreased production of
Decreased production of collagenase
collagenase – prevention of
– prevention of
tissue destruction
tissue destruction
 Decreased functioning of
Decreased functioning of osteoblasts
osteoblasts and increased
and increased
activity of
activity of osteoclastic
osteoclastic activity -
activity - osteoporosis
osteoporosis
 Decreased IgG production
Decreased IgG production
 Decreased generation of induced nitric oxide
Decreased generation of induced nitric oxide
Phospholipids
Arachidonic acids
lipoxygenase Cycylooxygenase
Leukotriene
Prostaglandins,
Thromboxane
Prostacyclins
Phospholipase A2
Lipocortin
Corticosteroids
PAF by lipocortin
Immunosuppressive & anti-allergic
Immunosuppressive & anti-allergic
actions
actions
 Suppresses all types of hypersensitivity &
Suppresses all types of hypersensitivity &
allergic phenomenon
allergic phenomenon
 At High dose: Interfere with all steps of
At High dose: Interfere with all steps of
immunological response
immunological response
 Causes greater suppression of CMI (graft
Causes greater suppression of CMI (graft
rejection & delayed hypersensitivity)
rejection & delayed hypersensitivity)
 Transplant rejection: antigen expression from
Transplant rejection: antigen expression from
grafted tissues, delay revascularization,
grafted tissues, delay revascularization,
sensitisation of T lymphocytes etc.
sensitisation of T lymphocytes etc.
Glucocorticoids – Anti-inflammatory
Glucocorticoids – Anti-inflammatory
and Immunosuppressive effects
and Immunosuppressive effects
Glucocorticoids - Pharmacokinetics
Glucocorticoids - Pharmacokinetics
 Therapeutically given by various routes – orally, IM, IV,
Therapeutically given by various routes – orally, IM, IV,
topically
topically
 Hydrocortisone undergoes high first pass metabolism
Hydrocortisone undergoes high first pass metabolism
 Oral bioavailability of synthetic corticoids is high
Oral bioavailability of synthetic corticoids is high
 Both, endogenous and therapeutically administered GC
Both, endogenous and therapeutically administered GC
are bound to Corticosteroid Binding Globulin (CBG)
are bound to Corticosteroid Binding Globulin (CBG)
 Synthetic steroids have to undergo reduction in liver to
Synthetic steroids have to undergo reduction in liver to
active compounds
active compounds
 Metabolized in liver and excreted in urine
Metabolized in liver and excreted in urine
 Exogenously administered hydrocortisone has t1/2 of 1.5
Exogenously administered hydrocortisone has t1/2 of 1.5
Hrs
Hrs
Steroid Preparations
Steroid Preparations
 An ideal GC should have no
An ideal GC should have no
mineralocorticoid activity
mineralocorticoid activity
 Structural changes to the basic cortisol
Structural changes to the basic cortisol
molecule resulted in a number of
molecule resulted in a number of
compounds with
compounds with

Minimal mineralocorticoid activity
Minimal mineralocorticoid activity

Greater potency
Greater potency

Longer duration of action
Longer duration of action
Important agents
Important agents
 Injectable:
Injectable:
Betamethasone Dexamethasone
Betamethasone Dexamethasone
Prednisolone Methylprednisolone
Prednisolone Methylprednisolone
Hydrocortisone Triamcinolone
Hydrocortisone Triamcinolone
 Oral:
Oral:
Betamethasone Fludricortisone
Betamethasone Fludricortisone
Prednisolone Prednisone
Prednisolone Prednisone
Methylprednisolone
Methylprednisolone
 Topical:
Topical:
Betamethasone Clobetasol
Betamethasone Clobetasol
Flucinolone Mometasone
Flucinolone Mometasone
 Inhalation:
Inhalation:
Beclomethasone Budesonide
Beclomethasone Budesonide
Flunisolode
Flunisolode
Chemical Structures
Chemical Structures
Pharmaceutical steroids are usually obtained from
“cholic acid” (obtained from cattle) or sapogenins found
in plants of Liliacaceae
Cyclopentanoperhydro
phenanthrene skeleton
Rings are labeled as A,
B, C and D.
Natural steroids have
two methyls
Numbering of each position
essentially follows a uniform
pattern except for the
methyls.
Relative Activity
Relative Activity
Compound
Compound Duration
Duration GC
GC MC
MC Equivalent
Equivalent
dose (mg)
dose (mg)
Hydrocortisone
Hydrocortisone SA
SA 1
1 1
1 20
20
Prednisolone
Prednisolone IA
IA 4
4 0.8
0.8 5
5
Methyl
Methyl
Prednisolone
Prednisolone
IA
IA 5
5 0.5
0.5 4
4
Triamcinolone
Triamcinolone IA
IA 5
5 0
0 4
4
Dexamethasone
Dexamethasone LA
LA 25
25 0
0 0.75
0.75
Betmethasone
Betmethasone LA
LA 25
25 0
0 0.75
0.75
Aldosterone
Aldosterone MC
MC 0.3
0.3 500 - 3000
500 - 3000 NU
NU
Desoxycortisone
Desoxycortisone
acetate (DOCA)
acetate (DOCA)
MC
MC 0
0 100
100 2.5 (S.
2.5 (S.
lingual)
lingual)
Corticosteroids - Clinical
Corticosteroids - Clinical
Pharmacology
Pharmacology
Therapeutic uses
Therapeutic uses
 A number of diverse disease states respond to
A number of diverse disease states respond to
GCs
GCs
 Physiologic doses of Corticosteroids are used
Physiologic doses of Corticosteroids are used
for replacement therapy in primary and
for replacement therapy in primary and
secondary adrenal insufficiency such as
secondary adrenal insufficiency such as
Addison`s disease
Addison`s disease
 Supraphysiologic doses are used for their anti-
Supraphysiologic doses are used for their anti-
inflammatory effects in arthritis, asthma and
inflammatory effects in arthritis, asthma and
inflammatory bowel disease
inflammatory bowel disease
 In organ transplant patients and those with
In organ transplant patients and those with
autoimmune disorders corticosteroids are used
autoimmune disorders corticosteroids are used
for their immunosuppressive effects
for their immunosuppressive effects
Replacement Therapy
Replacement Therapy
 Adrenal insufficiency – acute/chronic
Adrenal insufficiency – acute/chronic

Abrupt withdrawal of steroid therapy
Abrupt withdrawal of steroid therapy

Chronic infections – Tuberculosis
Chronic infections – Tuberculosis

Autoimmune adrenal disease
Autoimmune adrenal disease

Surgery, Hemorrhage and AIDS
Surgery, Hemorrhage and AIDS
 Congenital adrenal hyperplasia
Congenital adrenal hyperplasia

Congenital disorder due to deficiency of 21-
Congenital disorder due to deficiency of 21-
hydroxylse enzyme – no cortisol but ACTH –
hydroxylse enzyme – no cortisol but ACTH –
increased androgen production
increased androgen production
CAH
Replacement Therapy
Replacement Therapy
 Acute adrenal insufficiency
Acute adrenal insufficiency

IV replacement of sodium chloride and fluid
IV replacement of sodium chloride and fluid

IV hydrocortisone 100 mg stat followed by100 mg
IV hydrocortisone 100 mg stat followed by100 mg
every 8 Hrs – maximal daily rate of secretion
every 8 Hrs – maximal daily rate of secretion
(alternatively, dexamethasone can be used)
(alternatively, dexamethasone can be used)
 Chronic adrenal insufficiency
Chronic adrenal insufficiency

Hydrocortisone
Hydrocortisone

Prednisolone or dexamethasone – long acting
Prednisolone or dexamethasone – long acting

Fludrocortisone for mineralocorticoid effects
Fludrocortisone for mineralocorticoid effects
 Congenital adrenal hyperplasia
Congenital adrenal hyperplasia

Hydrocortisone 0.6 mg/kg in divided doses – to
Hydrocortisone 0.6 mg/kg in divided doses – to
maintain feedback suppression
maintain feedback suppression
Anti-inflammatory Uses
Anti-inflammatory Uses
 For suppression of inflammatory components in
For suppression of inflammatory components in
–
–

Rheumatoid arthritis – as adjuvant with NSAIDs in
Rheumatoid arthritis – as adjuvant with NSAIDs in
severe cases
severe cases

Osteoarthritis – NSAIDs, intra-articular injection
Osteoarthritis – NSAIDs, intra-articular injection

Rheumatic fever – severe cases with carditis and
Rheumatic fever – severe cases with carditis and
CHF
CHF

Gout – NSAID failed cases and colchicine failed
Gout – NSAID failed cases and colchicine failed
cases – intra-articular injection
cases – intra-articular injection

Vasculitic disorders: Polyarteritis nodosa
Vasculitic disorders: Polyarteritis nodosa
Intra-articular Steroids
Intra-articular Steroids
Can be used in inflammatory
Non-inflammatory diseases
• Knee joint
• Shoulder joint
• Tennis elbow
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
Autoimmune diseases
Autoimmune diseases
 Autoimmune haemolytic anaemia
Autoimmune haemolytic anaemia
 Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura
Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura
 Active chronic hepatitis, alcoholic hepatitis
Active chronic hepatitis, alcoholic hepatitis
(Prednisolone 1-2 mg/kg/day given till
(Prednisolone 1-2 mg/kg/day given till
remission followed by gradual withdrawal
remission followed by gradual withdrawal
or low dose maintenance)
or low dose maintenance)
ITP
Renal diseases
Renal diseases
 Nephrotic syndrome in children
Nephrotic syndrome in children
 Renal disease secondary to SLE
Renal disease secondary to SLE
 Renal sarcoidosis
Renal sarcoidosis
 Glomerulonephritis – membranous type
Glomerulonephritis – membranous type
(Life saving importance – usually given in
(Life saving importance – usually given in
large doses followed by tapering to
large doses followed by tapering to
maintenance dose)
maintenance dose)
SLE
Organ Transplant
Organ Transplant
 Combined with other immunosuppressants
Combined with other immunosuppressants
– cyclosporin, azathioprine
– cyclosporin, azathioprine
 For prolonged use:
For prolonged use:
 Prednisolone or methylprednisolone are
Prednisolone or methylprednisolone are
used
used

Intermediate duration of action
Intermediate duration of action

Can be easily tapered
Can be easily tapered

Can be converted to an alternate regime
Can be converted to an alternate regime
Allergic Disorders
Allergic Disorders
 Exhibit a delayed response in allergies (1-2 hrs
Exhibit a delayed response in allergies (1-2 hrs
even in IV injection)
even in IV injection)
 In anaphylaxis, angioneurotic oedema and
In anaphylaxis, angioneurotic oedema and
serum sickness etc. – adrenaline is the choice
serum sickness etc. – adrenaline is the choice
 Seasonal allergies, bee sting, drug allergies –
Seasonal allergies, bee sting, drug allergies –

Allergic reactions can be suppressed by
Allergic reactions can be suppressed by
corticosteroids as supplements
corticosteroids as supplements
 Intranasal administration in allergic rhinitis -
Intranasal administration in allergic rhinitis -
budesonide and flunisolide
budesonide and flunisolide
Bronchial Asthma
Bronchial Asthma
 The increased recognition of the immunological and
The increased recognition of the immunological and
inflammatory nature of Bronchial asthma has led to the
inflammatory nature of Bronchial asthma has led to the
use of corticosteroids
use of corticosteroids
 In severe asthma attacks
In severe asthma attacks
IV hydrocortisone Methylprednisolone
IV hydrocortisone Methylprednisolone
Oral prednisolone
Oral prednisolone
 Acute attacks:
Acute attacks:
*Inhaled beclmethasone, budesonide, flunisolide
*Inhaled beclmethasone, budesonide, flunisolide
alone or combined with beta-2 agonists/ipratropium
alone or combined with beta-2 agonists/ipratropium
*Oral steroids
*Oral steroids
Infectious Diseases
Infectious Diseases
 Indicated only in severe infective diseases
Indicated only in severe infective diseases
to tide over crisis or prebent complictions
to tide over crisis or prebent complictions

AIDS and pneumocystis carinii pneumonia
AIDS and pneumocystis carinii pneumonia

In haemophilus influenza meningitis to reduce
In haemophilus influenza meningitis to reduce
neurological complications
neurological complications

Tubercular meningitis
Tubercular meningitis

Lepra reaction
Lepra reaction

Scepticaemia
Scepticaemia
Lepra reaction
Ocular Diseases
Ocular Diseases
 Important drug therapy for suppressing
Important drug therapy for suppressing
inflammation in eye and preservation of sight
inflammation in eye and preservation of sight
 Topical instillations are used for conditions of the
Topical instillations are used for conditions of the
anterior chamber – allergic conjunctivitis, iritis,
anterior chamber – allergic conjunctivitis, iritis,
iridocyclitis and keratitis etc.
iridocyclitis and keratitis etc.
 Systemic steroids for the posterior chamber
Systemic steroids for the posterior chamber
 Dexamethasone topical 0.1%
Dexamethasone topical 0.1%
 Prednisolone oral
Prednisolone oral
 Contraindicated in viral, fulminant bacterial
Contraindicated in viral, fulminant bacterial
infections, fungal infections and injuries
infections, fungal infections and injuries
Skin Diseases
Skin Diseases
 The largest application of steroid therapy
The largest application of steroid therapy
 Topical forms are widely used in many
Topical forms are widely used in many
eczematous skin diseases
eczematous skin diseases
 Systemic therapy are also required and
Systemic therapy are also required and
may be life saving in
may be life saving in

Pemphigus vulgaris
Pemphigus vulgaris

Exfoliative dermatitis
Exfoliative dermatitis

Stevens-Johnson syndrome
Stevens-Johnson syndrome
Pemphigus
vulgaris
GIT
GIT
 Inflammatory conditions of intestine like
Inflammatory conditions of intestine like

Ulcerative colitis
Ulcerative colitis

Crohn`s disease
Crohn`s disease

Coeliac disease
Coeliac disease
(oral therapy or retention enema with hydrocortisone)
(oral therapy or retention enema with hydrocortisone)
 May mask the major complications like
May mask the major complications like
perforation and peritonitis
perforation and peritonitis
Malignancy
Malignancy
 Essential for combined chemotherapy of
Essential for combined chemotherapy of

Acute lymphatic leukemia
Acute lymphatic leukemia

Hodgkin's and other lymphomas
Hodgkin's and other lymphomas

Hormone responsive breast carcinoma
Hormone responsive breast carcinoma
 Symptomatic relief in other advance
Symptomatic relief in other advance
malignancies by improving appetite and
malignancies by improving appetite and
controlling secondary hypercalcaemia
controlling secondary hypercalcaemia
Hodgkin`s
lymphoma
Cerebral Oedema
Cerebral Oedema
 Cerebral oedema due to tumors
Cerebral oedema due to tumors
(neoplasms)
(neoplasms)
 Traumatic and poststroke oedema (?)
Traumatic and poststroke oedema (?)
(Dexamethasone or betamethasone is
(Dexamethasone or betamethasone is
preferred because no Na+ retaining
preferred because no Na+ retaining
activity)
activity)
 Other CNS conditions - spinal chord injury,
Other CNS conditions - spinal chord injury,
Bell`s palsy and neurocysticercosis
Bell`s palsy and neurocysticercosis
 (Oral Prednisolone is the preferred drug)
(Oral Prednisolone is the preferred drug)
Other Uses
Other Uses
 Antiemetic – with ondansetron
Antiemetic – with ondansetron
 Acute mountain sickness
Acute mountain sickness
 Aspiration pneumonia, pulmonary oedema
Aspiration pneumonia, pulmonary oedema
from drowning
from drowning
 Hyperthyroidism – thyroid storm
Hyperthyroidism – thyroid storm
Adverse Effects
Adverse Effects
 Two types:
Two types:

From abrupt withdrawal
From abrupt withdrawal

Chronic therapeutic use of high dose
Chronic therapeutic use of high dose
 Withdrawal
Withdrawal

Flare up of underlying disease
Flare up of underlying disease

Suppression of HPA axis and acute adrenal
Suppression of HPA axis and acute adrenal
insufficiency
insufficiency

Increased ICT and papilloedema
Increased ICT and papilloedema
Adverse Effects
Adverse Effects
Cushing`s habitus
Other Important Adverse Effects
Other Important Adverse Effects
 Fluid and Electrolyte Disturbance – Na and water
Fluid and Electrolyte Disturbance – Na and water
retention
retention
 Precipitation of Diabetes mellitus – hyperglycemia
Precipitation of Diabetes mellitus – hyperglycemia
 Increased susceptibility to infections – immune response
Increased susceptibility to infections – immune response
suppression
suppression
 Peptic ulceration – bleeding & perforation
Peptic ulceration – bleeding & perforation
 Osteoporosis – flat spongy bones
Osteoporosis – flat spongy bones
 Osteonecrosis – avascular necrosis of head of femur,
Osteonecrosis – avascular necrosis of head of femur,
humorous etc.
humorous etc.
 Myopathy – weakness of muscles
Myopathy – weakness of muscles
 Cataract – posterior sub capsular
Cataract – posterior sub capsular
 Glaucoma – prolonged topical therapy
Glaucoma – prolonged topical therapy
 Growth retardation – in children
Growth retardation – in children
Contraindications
Contraindications
 Say no to any drug formulation combined with
Say no to any drug formulation combined with
steroids
steroids
 Remember that STEROIDS are life saving drugs
Remember that STEROIDS are life saving drugs
 Note the following conditions where u have to be
Note the following conditions where u have to be
extremely cautious:
extremely cautious:

Peptic ulcer
Peptic ulcer

Hypertension and Diabetes mellitus
Hypertension and Diabetes mellitus

Viral and fungal infections
Viral and fungal infections

Tuberculosis and other diseases
Tuberculosis and other diseases

Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis

Epilepsy and psychosis
Epilepsy and psychosis

CHF and renal failure
CHF and renal failure
Choosing a Steroid
Choosing a Steroid
 Benefit/risk ratio is a major consideration
Benefit/risk ratio is a major consideration
 Drugs with primary glucocorticoid activity
Drugs with primary glucocorticoid activity
are used
are used
 Minimal dose to achieve the desired
Minimal dose to achieve the desired
effects is chosen
effects is chosen
 Topical or local therapy is preferred
Topical or local therapy is preferred
whenever possible
whenever possible
Choosing a Steroid – contd.
Choosing a Steroid – contd.
• Once daily dosing is usually
Once daily dosing is usually
preferred for oral glucocorticoids
preferred for oral glucocorticoids
• Large steroid doses are
Large steroid doses are
administered in divided doses to
administered in divided doses to
reduce local GIT effects
reduce local GIT effects
• In order to mimic the normal diurnal
In order to mimic the normal diurnal
cycle and reduce the risk of
cycle and reduce the risk of
adrenal suppression, GCs should
adrenal suppression, GCs should
be given in the morning between
be given in the morning between
6-10 AM
6-10 AM
• Alternate day therapy allows the
Alternate day therapy allows the
HPA axis to recover on off days
HPA axis to recover on off days
Single
dose
Steroid
Withdrawal of Steroid Therapy
Withdrawal of Steroid Therapy
 Taper the dose to reduce GC dose by 2.5-5 mg of
Taper the dose to reduce GC dose by 2.5-5 mg of
prednisolone equivalent daily
prednisolone equivalent daily
 Once the GC dose is reduced to 5 mg of prednisolone
Once the GC dose is reduced to 5 mg of prednisolone
equivalent, the patient may be switched to a shorter
equivalent, the patient may be switched to a shorter
acting agent for further tapering
acting agent for further tapering
 Intermediate acting corticosteroids allow for more flexible
Intermediate acting corticosteroids allow for more flexible
dosing schedule
dosing schedule

Have potent glucocorticoid effects
Have potent glucocorticoid effects

Causes lesser suppression of HPA axis
Causes lesser suppression of HPA axis

Causes less GIT irritation
Causes less GIT irritation

Preferred for oral therapy
Preferred for oral therapy

Prednisolone, methylprednisolone and triacinolone have a half
Prednisolone, methylprednisolone and triacinolone have a half
life of 12-36 Hrs, are available in a number of dosage forms
life of 12-36 Hrs, are available in a number of dosage forms
Adrenocorticosteroid Inhibitors
Adrenocorticosteroid Inhibitors
 Metyrapone:
Metyrapone: 11 beta-hydroxylase
11 beta-hydroxylase enzyme inhibitor – used
enzyme inhibitor – used
in Cushing`s syndrome and test of pituitary efficiency
in Cushing`s syndrome and test of pituitary efficiency
 Aminoglutethemide:
Aminoglutethemide: Stops conversion of cholesterol to
Stops conversion of cholesterol to
pregnelone
pregnelone (Medical adrenalectomy)
(Medical adrenalectomy) – Breast cancers
– Breast cancers
 Mifepristone:
Mifepristone: Progesterone antagonist
Progesterone antagonist
 Spironolactone:
Spironolactone: Aldosterone antagonist
Aldosterone antagonist
 Ketoconazole:
Ketoconazole: Inhibits synthesis of all hormones in testes
Inhibits synthesis of all hormones in testes
and adrenal cortex – used in Cushing`s syndrome and
and adrenal cortex – used in Cushing`s syndrome and
also in hirsutism in female
also in hirsutism in female
Thank You
Thank You

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Corticosteroids-ppt.pptCorticosteroids-ppt.ppt

  • 2. Types of Steroids 1.Corticosteroids (Glucocorticoids and Mineralocorticoids) 1. Glucocorticoids: Affect metabolism, immune response, and inflammation. 1. Examples: Cortisol, Prednisone, Dexamethasone, Hydrocortisone. 2. Mineralocorticoids: Regulate salt and water balance. 1. Example: Aldosterone, Fludrocortisone.
  • 3. Steroids Steroids Steroids are fast catching up with antibiotics as the most abused class of drugs today High doses of corticosteroids and other immunosuppressive agents may cause AIDS
  • 4. Anatomy Anatomy  An inner medulla, An inner medulla, is a source is a source of catecholamine – adrenaline of catecholamine – adrenaline and nor-adrenaline and nor-adrenaline  Chromaffin cell is the principal Chromaffin cell is the principal cell type cell type  Medulla is richly innervated by Medulla is richly innervated by sympathetic fibres and is sympathetic fibres and is considered as extension of considered as extension of sympathetic nervous system sympathetic nervous system  Medulla develops from Medulla develops from ectoderm (neural crest) ectoderm (neural crest)  An outer cortex, An outer cortex, which which secretes several classes of secretes several classes of steroid hormones including steroid hormones including Glucocorticoids Glucocorticoids and and Mineralocorticoids Mineralocorticoids  Three different concentric Three different concentric zones of cells that differ in zones of cells that differ in major steroid hormones they major steroid hormones they secrete secrete  Cortex develops from Cortex develops from mesoderm mesoderm
  • 5. History History  1855 – Addison`s disease 1855 – Addison`s disease  1856 – Adrenal glands essential for life 1856 – Adrenal glands essential for life  1930 – Cortex > medulla 1930 – Cortex > medulla  1932 – Cushing’s syndrome 1932 – Cushing’s syndrome  1952 – Aldosterone 1952 – Aldosterone
  • 6. Adrenal Cortex Adrenal Cortex  The adrenal cortex is a factory of steroid hormones The adrenal cortex is a factory of steroid hormones  10 – 30 different steroids are synthesized from this 10 – 30 different steroids are synthesized from this tissue, but two classes are of importance tissue, but two classes are of importance Steroid Class Steroid Class Prototype Prototype Physiological effect Physiological effect Mineralocorticoid Mineralocorticoid Aldosterone (z. glomerulosa) Aldosterone (z. glomerulosa) Na, K and water Na, K and water homeostasis homeostasis Glucocorticoid Glucocorticoid Hydrocortisone or cortisol (z. fasciculata) Hydrocortisone or cortisol (z. fasciculata) Corticosterone Corticosterone Glucose and many Glucose and many other homeostasis other homeostasis Adrenal cortex also produces sex steroids – Androgens, Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) – z. reticularis
  • 7. Biosynthesis Biosynthesis  Synthesized from cholesterol Synthesized from cholesterol through a series of enzyme- through a series of enzyme- mediated transformations mediated transformations  ACTH ACTH stimulates adrenal stimulates adrenal steroid synthesis steroid synthesis  Aldosterone synthesis is not Aldosterone synthesis is not stimulated by ACTH but by stimulated by ACTH but by angiotensin II, although ACTH angiotensin II, although ACTH does stimulate synthesis of does stimulate synthesis of aldosterone precursors aldosterone precursors  Circulating Potassium exerts a Circulating Potassium exerts a permissive effect on permissive effect on angiotensin II stimulation; high angiotensin II stimulation; high potassium enhances and low potassium enhances and low potassium diminishes potassium diminishes
  • 8. Steroid Biosynthesis - contd. Steroid Biosynthesis - contd.
  • 9. Basal Secretion Basal Secretion Group Group Hormone Hormone Daily Daily Glucocorticoids Glucocorticoids Cortisol Cortisol Corticosterone Corticosterone 5 – 30 mg 5 – 30 mg 2 – 5 mg 2 – 5 mg Mineralocorticoids Mineralocorticoids Aldosterone Aldosterone 11- deoxycorticosterone 11- deoxycorticosterone 5 – 150 mcg 5 – 150 mcg Trace Trace Sex Hormones Sex Hormones Androgen Androgen Progestogen Progestogen Oestrogen Oestrogen DHEA DHEA Progesterone Progesterone Oestradiol Oestradiol 15 – 30 mg 15 – 30 mg 0.4 – 0.8 mg 0.4 – 0.8 mg Trace Trace
  • 10. Regulation of Synthesis Regulation of Synthesis • Synthesized and released under influence of ACTH - Ant. Pituitary (HPA axis) • Regulated by CRH from hypothalamus and by feedback levels of blood concentrations
  • 11. 1. 1. Control by circadian Control by circadian rhythm (Diurnal rhythm (Diurnal rhythm) – morning rhythm) – morning rise rise 2. 2. Stress: Stress: hypoglycaemia, hypoglycaemia, physical stress etc. physical stress etc. Regulation of Synthesis - Others Regulation of Synthesis - Others
  • 12. Diurnal variation of Cortisol Diurnal variation of Cortisol
  • 13. Glucocorticoids - MOA Glucocorticoids - MOA  Not stored: Not stored:  rate of synthesis = rate of release rate of synthesis = rate of release  Synthesize rhythmically and controlled by Synthesize rhythmically and controlled by irregular pulses of ACTH, influenced by light and irregular pulses of ACTH, influenced by light and major pulses occur early in the morning and major pulses occur early in the morning and after meals after meals  Glucocorticoids act via their receptors located in Glucocorticoids act via their receptors located in nucleus (GR) nucleus (GR)  GRs are widely distributed and located almost in GRs are widely distributed and located almost in all cells of the body all cells of the body  They are made up of almost 800 amino acids They are made up of almost 800 amino acids
  • 14. Glucocorticoids - MOA Glucocorticoids - MOA  GR receptors are located in the cytoplasm GR receptors are located in the cytoplasm  One GR receptor has a DNA binding domain and a One GR receptor has a DNA binding domain and a ligand binding domain along with stabilizing proteins ligand binding domain along with stabilizing proteins (HSP 90 and HSP 70) (HSP 90 and HSP 70)  This receptor is incapable of activating transcription This receptor is incapable of activating transcription  Binding of free steroid molecule to GR forms an unstable Binding of free steroid molecule to GR forms an unstable compound compound  Therefore HSP and other proteins get dissociated Therefore HSP and other proteins get dissociated  The S+GR complex enters the nucleus and binds to The S+GR complex enters the nucleus and binds to Glucocorticoids response element (GRE) on gene and Glucocorticoids response element (GRE) on gene and regulate transcription by RNA polymerase II and others regulate transcription by RNA polymerase II and others  The resulting mRNA is transported to cytoplasm for The resulting mRNA is transported to cytoplasm for production of protein and bring about final response production of protein and bring about final response
  • 16. Actions Actions Numerous and widespread actions: Numerous and widespread actions:  Carbohydrate, lipid and protein metabolism Carbohydrate, lipid and protein metabolism  Fluid and electrolyte balance Fluid and electrolyte balance  Normal functioning of CVS, immune system, kidneys, skeletal muscles and nervous system Normal functioning of CVS, immune system, kidneys, skeletal muscles and nervous system  Provides resistance to stress and noxious stimuli and environmental changes Provides resistance to stress and noxious stimuli and environmental changes  Permits and facilitates the actions of other hormones Permits and facilitates the actions of other hormones  Direct Actions Direct Actions  Permissive Actions Permissive Actions • Lipolytic effects • Effect on BP • Effect on bronchial muscles • (e.g.,sympathomimetic amine)
  • 17. Actions of Corticosteroids - Actions of Corticosteroids - Mineralocorticoid Mineralocorticoid  Aldosterone is the prototype of mineralocorticoid effects Aldosterone is the prototype of mineralocorticoid effects  Acts on the distal tubule to enhance absorption of Na+ Acts on the distal tubule to enhance absorption of Na+  Increase excretion of K+ and H Increase excretion of K+ and H  Similar effects occur in colon, sweat gland and salivary Similar effects occur in colon, sweat gland and salivary gland gland  Deficiency of mineralocorticoid action leads to Deficiency of mineralocorticoid action leads to – – dilutional hyponatraemia, hyperkalamia, acidosis, dilutional hyponatraemia, hyperkalamia, acidosis, massive loss of Na+ and decreased EFC volume massive loss of Na+ and decreased EFC volume (essential for survival) (essential for survival)  Hyperaldosterinism: Hyperaldosterinism: Positive Na+ balance, expansion of Positive Na+ balance, expansion of ECF, increased plasma Na, hypokalaemia, alkalosis and ECF, increased plasma Na, hypokalaemia, alkalosis and progressive rise in BP – hypertension, myocardial progressive rise in BP – hypertension, myocardial fibrosis etc. fibrosis etc.
  • 18. Glucocorticoid actions - Glucocorticoid actions - Carbohydrate & protein metabolism Carbohydrate & protein metabolism  Profound effect on carbohydrate and protein metabolism Profound effect on carbohydrate and protein metabolism – aimed at protecting glucose dependent tissues (brain – aimed at protecting glucose dependent tissues (brain and heart) and heart)  Promotes glycogen deposition in liver and stimulate it to Promotes glycogen deposition in liver and stimulate it to form glucose from amino acids – gluconeogenesis form glucose from amino acids – gluconeogenesis  In peripheral tissues decreases utilization of glucose, In peripheral tissues decreases utilization of glucose, increase protein breakdown and activate lipolysis – form increase protein breakdown and activate lipolysis – form amino acids and glycerol for gluconeogenesis amino acids and glycerol for gluconeogenesis  All these results in - All these results in -  Diabetes like stat resistant to insulin – increased glucose release Diabetes like stat resistant to insulin – increased glucose release from liver + decreased peripheral glucose utilization from liver + decreased peripheral glucose utilization  Negative Nitrogen balance (catabolic effect) – amino acid used Negative Nitrogen balance (catabolic effect) – amino acid used up in gluconeogenesis – increased urea production up in gluconeogenesis – increased urea production  Mobilization of amino acids – muscles, thinning of bone and skin Mobilization of amino acids – muscles, thinning of bone and skin
  • 19. Actions: Actions: Carbohydrate and protein metabolism Carbohydrate and protein metabolism  Gluconeogenesis Gluconeogenesis  Peripheral actions Peripheral actions (mobilize AA & glucose and glycogen) (mobilize AA & glucose and glycogen)  Hepatic actions Hepatic actions  Peripheral utilization of glucose Peripheral utilization of glucose  Glycogen deposition in liver Glycogen deposition in liver (activation of hepatic glycogen synthase) (activation of hepatic glycogen synthase) Negative nitrogen balance & hyperglycaemia
  • 20. Fat Metabolism Fat Metabolism  Redistribution of fats in different areas of the Redistribution of fats in different areas of the body body  Due to permissive facilitation of effects of other Due to permissive facilitation of effects of other agents – GH, glucagons, Adr, thyroxine and agents – GH, glucagons, Adr, thyroxine and insulin insulin  Deposition of fats in face, neck and shoulder – moon Deposition of fats in face, neck and shoulder – moon face/buffalo hump face/buffalo hump  Glucocorticoids facilitated hormone sensitive lipolysis Glucocorticoids facilitated hormone sensitive lipolysis action of GH and Adr. + Glucocorticoids mediated action of GH and Adr. + Glucocorticoids mediated increased insulin = net result is insulin mediated increased insulin = net result is insulin mediated lipogenesis and fat deposition lipogenesis and fat deposition  Peripheral adipocytes are less sensitive to insulin, but Peripheral adipocytes are less sensitive to insulin, but in face and neck predominant action – fat deposition in face and neck predominant action – fat deposition
  • 21. Actions of Glucocorticoids Actions of Glucocorticoids  Water excretion: Water excretion:  Glucocorticoids play important role in maintaining normal GFR - in Glucocorticoids play important role in maintaining normal GFR - in adrenal insufficiency capacity to excrete water is lost – water adrenal insufficiency capacity to excrete water is lost – water intoxication intoxication  Calcium Balance: Calcium Balance:  Decrease absorption of Ca++ in GIT and increased excretion – calcium Decrease absorption of Ca++ in GIT and increased excretion – calcium depletion - depletion - osteoporosis osteoporosis  Skeletal muscle: Skeletal muscle:  Normal muscular activity needs Glucocorticoids at its optimum level Normal muscular activity needs Glucocorticoids at its optimum level  Excess level leads to muscular weakness and wasting Excess level leads to muscular weakness and wasting  Muscular weakness occurs in both Hypocorticism (due to hypodynamic Muscular weakness occurs in both Hypocorticism (due to hypodynamic circulation) and hypercorticism – due to hypokalaemia circulation) and hypercorticism – due to hypokalaemia  CNS: CNS:  Euphoria – in pharmacological doses Euphoria – in pharmacological doses  Addison's disease – apathy, depression and psychosis Addison's disease – apathy, depression and psychosis  High doses – induce seizure High doses – induce seizure
  • 22. Actions of Glucocorticoids Actions of Glucocorticoids  CVS: CVS: Permissive role on pressor effect with Adr and angiotensin Permissive role on pressor effect with Adr and angiotensin  Maintain tone of arterioles and myocardial contractility Maintain tone of arterioles and myocardial contractility  Adrenal insufficiency leads to low cardiac output and arteriolar dilatation Adrenal insufficiency leads to low cardiac output and arteriolar dilatation and poor response to adrenaline and poor response to adrenaline  Cardiovascular collapse – along with mineralocorticoids Cardiovascular collapse – along with mineralocorticoids  Blood and lymphoid tissues: Blood and lymphoid tissues:  Destruction of lymphoid tissue – modest in normal persons Destruction of lymphoid tissue – modest in normal persons  In presence of malignancy of lymphatic cells – lytic actions are In presence of malignancy of lymphatic cells – lytic actions are significant (apoptosis) – used in lymphomas significant (apoptosis) – used in lymphomas (Basis of Use) (Basis of Use)  Minor effects on haemoglobin and RBCs – protect against haemolysis Minor effects on haemoglobin and RBCs – protect against haemolysis of RBCs – of RBCs – Increase in number of RBCs Increase in number of RBCs  Decreases the numbers of circulating lymphocytes, monocytes, Decreases the numbers of circulating lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils and basophils but increases Polymorphs eosinophils and basophils but increases Polymorphs
  • 23. Glucocorticoids – anti-inflammatory Glucocorticoids – anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects and immunosuppressive effects  Suppress inflammatory response to all noxious stimuli: Suppress inflammatory response to all noxious stimuli: Pathogens, chemical,physical and immune mediated Pathogens, chemical,physical and immune mediated stimuli, hypersensitivity stimuli, hypersensitivity  Underlying cause of disease is not corrected Underlying cause of disease is not corrected  Reduction in cardinal signs of inflammation Reduction in cardinal signs of inflammation  Anti-inflammatory effects are non—specific and covers Anti-inflammatory effects are non—specific and covers all components of inflammation: all components of inflammation:  Effects on concentration, distribution and functions of peripheral Effects on concentration, distribution and functions of peripheral leukocytes – increased neutrophils & their activity leukocytes – increased neutrophils & their activity  In macrophages: reduction of arachidonic acid metabolites In macrophages: reduction of arachidonic acid metabolites (mediators) like PG, LT and PAF synthesis that results from (mediators) like PG, LT and PAF synthesis that results from activation of phospholipase A2 activation of phospholipase A2 Basis of exogenous use of most clinical uses Basis of exogenous use of most clinical uses
  • 24. Glucorticoids - Multiple Mechanisms  Recruitment of WBC & monocyte - macrophage into Recruitment of WBC & monocyte - macrophage into affected area & elaboration of chemotactic substances affected area & elaboration of chemotactic substances  Lipocortin: decreased production of PG, LT and PAF Lipocortin: decreased production of PG, LT and PAF  Negative regulation of COX 2: inducible PG Negative regulation of COX 2: inducible PG production production  Negative regulation of genes in cytokines of Negative regulation of genes in cytokines of macrophages, endothelial cells and lymphocytes: macrophages, endothelial cells and lymphocytes: production of IL (1, 2, 3, 6), TNF production of IL (1, 2, 3, 6), TNFα α, GM-CSF etc. – , GM-CSF etc. – fibroblast proliferation and T-lymphocyte function – fibroblast proliferation and T-lymphocyte function – interference with chemotaxis interference with chemotaxis
  • 25. Contd. Contd.  In endothelial cells-Endothelial leucocyte adhesion In endothelial cells-Endothelial leucocyte adhesion molecule molecule (ELAM) (ELAM) and other and other CAM CAM are inhibited – are inhibited – adhesion and localization of leucocytes interfered adhesion and localization of leucocytes interfered  Release of histamine from basophils is inhibited Release of histamine from basophils is inhibited  Decreased production of Decreased production of collagenase collagenase – prevention of – prevention of tissue destruction tissue destruction  Decreased functioning of Decreased functioning of osteoblasts osteoblasts and increased and increased activity of activity of osteoclastic osteoclastic activity - activity - osteoporosis osteoporosis  Decreased IgG production Decreased IgG production  Decreased generation of induced nitric oxide Decreased generation of induced nitric oxide
  • 27. Immunosuppressive & anti-allergic Immunosuppressive & anti-allergic actions actions  Suppresses all types of hypersensitivity & Suppresses all types of hypersensitivity & allergic phenomenon allergic phenomenon  At High dose: Interfere with all steps of At High dose: Interfere with all steps of immunological response immunological response  Causes greater suppression of CMI (graft Causes greater suppression of CMI (graft rejection & delayed hypersensitivity) rejection & delayed hypersensitivity)  Transplant rejection: antigen expression from Transplant rejection: antigen expression from grafted tissues, delay revascularization, grafted tissues, delay revascularization, sensitisation of T lymphocytes etc. sensitisation of T lymphocytes etc.
  • 28. Glucocorticoids – Anti-inflammatory Glucocorticoids – Anti-inflammatory and Immunosuppressive effects and Immunosuppressive effects
  • 29. Glucocorticoids - Pharmacokinetics Glucocorticoids - Pharmacokinetics  Therapeutically given by various routes – orally, IM, IV, Therapeutically given by various routes – orally, IM, IV, topically topically  Hydrocortisone undergoes high first pass metabolism Hydrocortisone undergoes high first pass metabolism  Oral bioavailability of synthetic corticoids is high Oral bioavailability of synthetic corticoids is high  Both, endogenous and therapeutically administered GC Both, endogenous and therapeutically administered GC are bound to Corticosteroid Binding Globulin (CBG) are bound to Corticosteroid Binding Globulin (CBG)  Synthetic steroids have to undergo reduction in liver to Synthetic steroids have to undergo reduction in liver to active compounds active compounds  Metabolized in liver and excreted in urine Metabolized in liver and excreted in urine  Exogenously administered hydrocortisone has t1/2 of 1.5 Exogenously administered hydrocortisone has t1/2 of 1.5 Hrs Hrs
  • 30. Steroid Preparations Steroid Preparations  An ideal GC should have no An ideal GC should have no mineralocorticoid activity mineralocorticoid activity  Structural changes to the basic cortisol Structural changes to the basic cortisol molecule resulted in a number of molecule resulted in a number of compounds with compounds with  Minimal mineralocorticoid activity Minimal mineralocorticoid activity  Greater potency Greater potency  Longer duration of action Longer duration of action
  • 31. Important agents Important agents  Injectable: Injectable: Betamethasone Dexamethasone Betamethasone Dexamethasone Prednisolone Methylprednisolone Prednisolone Methylprednisolone Hydrocortisone Triamcinolone Hydrocortisone Triamcinolone  Oral: Oral: Betamethasone Fludricortisone Betamethasone Fludricortisone Prednisolone Prednisone Prednisolone Prednisone Methylprednisolone Methylprednisolone  Topical: Topical: Betamethasone Clobetasol Betamethasone Clobetasol Flucinolone Mometasone Flucinolone Mometasone  Inhalation: Inhalation: Beclomethasone Budesonide Beclomethasone Budesonide Flunisolode Flunisolode
  • 32. Chemical Structures Chemical Structures Pharmaceutical steroids are usually obtained from “cholic acid” (obtained from cattle) or sapogenins found in plants of Liliacaceae
  • 33. Cyclopentanoperhydro phenanthrene skeleton Rings are labeled as A, B, C and D. Natural steroids have two methyls Numbering of each position essentially follows a uniform pattern except for the methyls.
  • 34. Relative Activity Relative Activity Compound Compound Duration Duration GC GC MC MC Equivalent Equivalent dose (mg) dose (mg) Hydrocortisone Hydrocortisone SA SA 1 1 1 1 20 20 Prednisolone Prednisolone IA IA 4 4 0.8 0.8 5 5 Methyl Methyl Prednisolone Prednisolone IA IA 5 5 0.5 0.5 4 4 Triamcinolone Triamcinolone IA IA 5 5 0 0 4 4 Dexamethasone Dexamethasone LA LA 25 25 0 0 0.75 0.75 Betmethasone Betmethasone LA LA 25 25 0 0 0.75 0.75 Aldosterone Aldosterone MC MC 0.3 0.3 500 - 3000 500 - 3000 NU NU Desoxycortisone Desoxycortisone acetate (DOCA) acetate (DOCA) MC MC 0 0 100 100 2.5 (S. 2.5 (S. lingual) lingual)
  • 35. Corticosteroids - Clinical Corticosteroids - Clinical Pharmacology Pharmacology
  • 36. Therapeutic uses Therapeutic uses  A number of diverse disease states respond to A number of diverse disease states respond to GCs GCs  Physiologic doses of Corticosteroids are used Physiologic doses of Corticosteroids are used for replacement therapy in primary and for replacement therapy in primary and secondary adrenal insufficiency such as secondary adrenal insufficiency such as Addison`s disease Addison`s disease  Supraphysiologic doses are used for their anti- Supraphysiologic doses are used for their anti- inflammatory effects in arthritis, asthma and inflammatory effects in arthritis, asthma and inflammatory bowel disease inflammatory bowel disease  In organ transplant patients and those with In organ transplant patients and those with autoimmune disorders corticosteroids are used autoimmune disorders corticosteroids are used for their immunosuppressive effects for their immunosuppressive effects
  • 37. Replacement Therapy Replacement Therapy  Adrenal insufficiency – acute/chronic Adrenal insufficiency – acute/chronic  Abrupt withdrawal of steroid therapy Abrupt withdrawal of steroid therapy  Chronic infections – Tuberculosis Chronic infections – Tuberculosis  Autoimmune adrenal disease Autoimmune adrenal disease  Surgery, Hemorrhage and AIDS Surgery, Hemorrhage and AIDS  Congenital adrenal hyperplasia Congenital adrenal hyperplasia  Congenital disorder due to deficiency of 21- Congenital disorder due to deficiency of 21- hydroxylse enzyme – no cortisol but ACTH – hydroxylse enzyme – no cortisol but ACTH – increased androgen production increased androgen production CAH
  • 38. Replacement Therapy Replacement Therapy  Acute adrenal insufficiency Acute adrenal insufficiency  IV replacement of sodium chloride and fluid IV replacement of sodium chloride and fluid  IV hydrocortisone 100 mg stat followed by100 mg IV hydrocortisone 100 mg stat followed by100 mg every 8 Hrs – maximal daily rate of secretion every 8 Hrs – maximal daily rate of secretion (alternatively, dexamethasone can be used) (alternatively, dexamethasone can be used)  Chronic adrenal insufficiency Chronic adrenal insufficiency  Hydrocortisone Hydrocortisone  Prednisolone or dexamethasone – long acting Prednisolone or dexamethasone – long acting  Fludrocortisone for mineralocorticoid effects Fludrocortisone for mineralocorticoid effects  Congenital adrenal hyperplasia Congenital adrenal hyperplasia  Hydrocortisone 0.6 mg/kg in divided doses – to Hydrocortisone 0.6 mg/kg in divided doses – to maintain feedback suppression maintain feedback suppression
  • 39. Anti-inflammatory Uses Anti-inflammatory Uses  For suppression of inflammatory components in For suppression of inflammatory components in – –  Rheumatoid arthritis – as adjuvant with NSAIDs in Rheumatoid arthritis – as adjuvant with NSAIDs in severe cases severe cases  Osteoarthritis – NSAIDs, intra-articular injection Osteoarthritis – NSAIDs, intra-articular injection  Rheumatic fever – severe cases with carditis and Rheumatic fever – severe cases with carditis and CHF CHF  Gout – NSAID failed cases and colchicine failed Gout – NSAID failed cases and colchicine failed cases – intra-articular injection cases – intra-articular injection  Vasculitic disorders: Polyarteritis nodosa Vasculitic disorders: Polyarteritis nodosa
  • 40. Intra-articular Steroids Intra-articular Steroids Can be used in inflammatory Non-inflammatory diseases • Knee joint • Shoulder joint • Tennis elbow • Carpal tunnel syndrome
  • 41. Autoimmune diseases Autoimmune diseases  Autoimmune haemolytic anaemia Autoimmune haemolytic anaemia  Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura  Active chronic hepatitis, alcoholic hepatitis Active chronic hepatitis, alcoholic hepatitis (Prednisolone 1-2 mg/kg/day given till (Prednisolone 1-2 mg/kg/day given till remission followed by gradual withdrawal remission followed by gradual withdrawal or low dose maintenance) or low dose maintenance) ITP
  • 42. Renal diseases Renal diseases  Nephrotic syndrome in children Nephrotic syndrome in children  Renal disease secondary to SLE Renal disease secondary to SLE  Renal sarcoidosis Renal sarcoidosis  Glomerulonephritis – membranous type Glomerulonephritis – membranous type (Life saving importance – usually given in (Life saving importance – usually given in large doses followed by tapering to large doses followed by tapering to maintenance dose) maintenance dose) SLE
  • 43. Organ Transplant Organ Transplant  Combined with other immunosuppressants Combined with other immunosuppressants – cyclosporin, azathioprine – cyclosporin, azathioprine  For prolonged use: For prolonged use:  Prednisolone or methylprednisolone are Prednisolone or methylprednisolone are used used  Intermediate duration of action Intermediate duration of action  Can be easily tapered Can be easily tapered  Can be converted to an alternate regime Can be converted to an alternate regime
  • 44. Allergic Disorders Allergic Disorders  Exhibit a delayed response in allergies (1-2 hrs Exhibit a delayed response in allergies (1-2 hrs even in IV injection) even in IV injection)  In anaphylaxis, angioneurotic oedema and In anaphylaxis, angioneurotic oedema and serum sickness etc. – adrenaline is the choice serum sickness etc. – adrenaline is the choice  Seasonal allergies, bee sting, drug allergies – Seasonal allergies, bee sting, drug allergies –  Allergic reactions can be suppressed by Allergic reactions can be suppressed by corticosteroids as supplements corticosteroids as supplements  Intranasal administration in allergic rhinitis - Intranasal administration in allergic rhinitis - budesonide and flunisolide budesonide and flunisolide
  • 45. Bronchial Asthma Bronchial Asthma  The increased recognition of the immunological and The increased recognition of the immunological and inflammatory nature of Bronchial asthma has led to the inflammatory nature of Bronchial asthma has led to the use of corticosteroids use of corticosteroids  In severe asthma attacks In severe asthma attacks IV hydrocortisone Methylprednisolone IV hydrocortisone Methylprednisolone Oral prednisolone Oral prednisolone  Acute attacks: Acute attacks: *Inhaled beclmethasone, budesonide, flunisolide *Inhaled beclmethasone, budesonide, flunisolide alone or combined with beta-2 agonists/ipratropium alone or combined with beta-2 agonists/ipratropium *Oral steroids *Oral steroids
  • 46. Infectious Diseases Infectious Diseases  Indicated only in severe infective diseases Indicated only in severe infective diseases to tide over crisis or prebent complictions to tide over crisis or prebent complictions  AIDS and pneumocystis carinii pneumonia AIDS and pneumocystis carinii pneumonia  In haemophilus influenza meningitis to reduce In haemophilus influenza meningitis to reduce neurological complications neurological complications  Tubercular meningitis Tubercular meningitis  Lepra reaction Lepra reaction  Scepticaemia Scepticaemia Lepra reaction
  • 47. Ocular Diseases Ocular Diseases  Important drug therapy for suppressing Important drug therapy for suppressing inflammation in eye and preservation of sight inflammation in eye and preservation of sight  Topical instillations are used for conditions of the Topical instillations are used for conditions of the anterior chamber – allergic conjunctivitis, iritis, anterior chamber – allergic conjunctivitis, iritis, iridocyclitis and keratitis etc. iridocyclitis and keratitis etc.  Systemic steroids for the posterior chamber Systemic steroids for the posterior chamber  Dexamethasone topical 0.1% Dexamethasone topical 0.1%  Prednisolone oral Prednisolone oral  Contraindicated in viral, fulminant bacterial Contraindicated in viral, fulminant bacterial infections, fungal infections and injuries infections, fungal infections and injuries
  • 48. Skin Diseases Skin Diseases  The largest application of steroid therapy The largest application of steroid therapy  Topical forms are widely used in many Topical forms are widely used in many eczematous skin diseases eczematous skin diseases  Systemic therapy are also required and Systemic therapy are also required and may be life saving in may be life saving in  Pemphigus vulgaris Pemphigus vulgaris  Exfoliative dermatitis Exfoliative dermatitis  Stevens-Johnson syndrome Stevens-Johnson syndrome Pemphigus vulgaris
  • 49. GIT GIT  Inflammatory conditions of intestine like Inflammatory conditions of intestine like  Ulcerative colitis Ulcerative colitis  Crohn`s disease Crohn`s disease  Coeliac disease Coeliac disease (oral therapy or retention enema with hydrocortisone) (oral therapy or retention enema with hydrocortisone)  May mask the major complications like May mask the major complications like perforation and peritonitis perforation and peritonitis
  • 50. Malignancy Malignancy  Essential for combined chemotherapy of Essential for combined chemotherapy of  Acute lymphatic leukemia Acute lymphatic leukemia  Hodgkin's and other lymphomas Hodgkin's and other lymphomas  Hormone responsive breast carcinoma Hormone responsive breast carcinoma  Symptomatic relief in other advance Symptomatic relief in other advance malignancies by improving appetite and malignancies by improving appetite and controlling secondary hypercalcaemia controlling secondary hypercalcaemia Hodgkin`s lymphoma
  • 51. Cerebral Oedema Cerebral Oedema  Cerebral oedema due to tumors Cerebral oedema due to tumors (neoplasms) (neoplasms)  Traumatic and poststroke oedema (?) Traumatic and poststroke oedema (?) (Dexamethasone or betamethasone is (Dexamethasone or betamethasone is preferred because no Na+ retaining preferred because no Na+ retaining activity) activity)  Other CNS conditions - spinal chord injury, Other CNS conditions - spinal chord injury, Bell`s palsy and neurocysticercosis Bell`s palsy and neurocysticercosis  (Oral Prednisolone is the preferred drug) (Oral Prednisolone is the preferred drug)
  • 52. Other Uses Other Uses  Antiemetic – with ondansetron Antiemetic – with ondansetron  Acute mountain sickness Acute mountain sickness  Aspiration pneumonia, pulmonary oedema Aspiration pneumonia, pulmonary oedema from drowning from drowning  Hyperthyroidism – thyroid storm Hyperthyroidism – thyroid storm
  • 53. Adverse Effects Adverse Effects  Two types: Two types:  From abrupt withdrawal From abrupt withdrawal  Chronic therapeutic use of high dose Chronic therapeutic use of high dose  Withdrawal Withdrawal  Flare up of underlying disease Flare up of underlying disease  Suppression of HPA axis and acute adrenal Suppression of HPA axis and acute adrenal insufficiency insufficiency  Increased ICT and papilloedema Increased ICT and papilloedema
  • 55. Other Important Adverse Effects Other Important Adverse Effects  Fluid and Electrolyte Disturbance – Na and water Fluid and Electrolyte Disturbance – Na and water retention retention  Precipitation of Diabetes mellitus – hyperglycemia Precipitation of Diabetes mellitus – hyperglycemia  Increased susceptibility to infections – immune response Increased susceptibility to infections – immune response suppression suppression  Peptic ulceration – bleeding & perforation Peptic ulceration – bleeding & perforation  Osteoporosis – flat spongy bones Osteoporosis – flat spongy bones  Osteonecrosis – avascular necrosis of head of femur, Osteonecrosis – avascular necrosis of head of femur, humorous etc. humorous etc.  Myopathy – weakness of muscles Myopathy – weakness of muscles  Cataract – posterior sub capsular Cataract – posterior sub capsular  Glaucoma – prolonged topical therapy Glaucoma – prolonged topical therapy  Growth retardation – in children Growth retardation – in children
  • 56. Contraindications Contraindications  Say no to any drug formulation combined with Say no to any drug formulation combined with steroids steroids  Remember that STEROIDS are life saving drugs Remember that STEROIDS are life saving drugs  Note the following conditions where u have to be Note the following conditions where u have to be extremely cautious: extremely cautious:  Peptic ulcer Peptic ulcer  Hypertension and Diabetes mellitus Hypertension and Diabetes mellitus  Viral and fungal infections Viral and fungal infections  Tuberculosis and other diseases Tuberculosis and other diseases  Osteoporosis Osteoporosis  Epilepsy and psychosis Epilepsy and psychosis  CHF and renal failure CHF and renal failure
  • 57. Choosing a Steroid Choosing a Steroid  Benefit/risk ratio is a major consideration Benefit/risk ratio is a major consideration  Drugs with primary glucocorticoid activity Drugs with primary glucocorticoid activity are used are used  Minimal dose to achieve the desired Minimal dose to achieve the desired effects is chosen effects is chosen  Topical or local therapy is preferred Topical or local therapy is preferred whenever possible whenever possible
  • 58. Choosing a Steroid – contd. Choosing a Steroid – contd. • Once daily dosing is usually Once daily dosing is usually preferred for oral glucocorticoids preferred for oral glucocorticoids • Large steroid doses are Large steroid doses are administered in divided doses to administered in divided doses to reduce local GIT effects reduce local GIT effects • In order to mimic the normal diurnal In order to mimic the normal diurnal cycle and reduce the risk of cycle and reduce the risk of adrenal suppression, GCs should adrenal suppression, GCs should be given in the morning between be given in the morning between 6-10 AM 6-10 AM • Alternate day therapy allows the Alternate day therapy allows the HPA axis to recover on off days HPA axis to recover on off days Single dose Steroid
  • 59. Withdrawal of Steroid Therapy Withdrawal of Steroid Therapy  Taper the dose to reduce GC dose by 2.5-5 mg of Taper the dose to reduce GC dose by 2.5-5 mg of prednisolone equivalent daily prednisolone equivalent daily  Once the GC dose is reduced to 5 mg of prednisolone Once the GC dose is reduced to 5 mg of prednisolone equivalent, the patient may be switched to a shorter equivalent, the patient may be switched to a shorter acting agent for further tapering acting agent for further tapering  Intermediate acting corticosteroids allow for more flexible Intermediate acting corticosteroids allow for more flexible dosing schedule dosing schedule  Have potent glucocorticoid effects Have potent glucocorticoid effects  Causes lesser suppression of HPA axis Causes lesser suppression of HPA axis  Causes less GIT irritation Causes less GIT irritation  Preferred for oral therapy Preferred for oral therapy  Prednisolone, methylprednisolone and triacinolone have a half Prednisolone, methylprednisolone and triacinolone have a half life of 12-36 Hrs, are available in a number of dosage forms life of 12-36 Hrs, are available in a number of dosage forms
  • 60. Adrenocorticosteroid Inhibitors Adrenocorticosteroid Inhibitors  Metyrapone: Metyrapone: 11 beta-hydroxylase 11 beta-hydroxylase enzyme inhibitor – used enzyme inhibitor – used in Cushing`s syndrome and test of pituitary efficiency in Cushing`s syndrome and test of pituitary efficiency  Aminoglutethemide: Aminoglutethemide: Stops conversion of cholesterol to Stops conversion of cholesterol to pregnelone pregnelone (Medical adrenalectomy) (Medical adrenalectomy) – Breast cancers – Breast cancers  Mifepristone: Mifepristone: Progesterone antagonist Progesterone antagonist  Spironolactone: Spironolactone: Aldosterone antagonist Aldosterone antagonist  Ketoconazole: Ketoconazole: Inhibits synthesis of all hormones in testes Inhibits synthesis of all hormones in testes and adrenal cortex – used in Cushing`s syndrome and and adrenal cortex – used in Cushing`s syndrome and also in hirsutism in female also in hirsutism in female

Editor's Notes

  • #5: Addison’s disease is named after Dr. Thomas Addison – adrenal insufficiency. It was described by Harvey Cushing in 1932.[2][3] - also called hyperadrenocorticism or hypercorticism)
  • #7: Bring about a series of reactions to form steroids. Corticoids are 21 carbon compounds having cyclopentanoperhydrophenanthrene nucleus
  • #16: In absence lipolytic hormones hydrocortisone does not cause lipolysis Adrenaline and noradrenaline do not cause lipolysis in absence of glucocorticoids
  • #17: Principal action is to enhance Na+ reabsorption in distal tubule
  • #18: Glucocorticoids have dose related important effects in carbohydrate, protein, fat metabolism but these effects are also responsible for some its serious adverse effects. Because of release of glucose in blood insulin is released in peripheral tissues and inhibit uptake of glucose by muscles
  • #24: An enzyme that inhibits the activity of phospholipase A2. Lipocortins are activated by glucocorticoids.
  • #29: Decrease movement of neutrophils from blood vessels and increased activity of neutrophils and macrophages by altering the gene transcription of CAM and cytokines Decrease movement of neutrophils from blood vessels and increased activity of neutrophils and macrophages by altering the gene transcription of CAM and cytokines
  • #34: DOCA – only mineralocorticoid activity, used occasionally in addison`s disease for replacement therapy Sub lingual route 2.5 to 5 mg)
  • #51: Bell's palsy or idiopathic facial paralysis[1]is a dysfunction of cranial nerve VII (the facial nerve) that results in inability to control facial muscles on the affected side. Several conditions can cause a facial paralysis, e.g., brain tumor, stroke, and Lyme disease. However, if no