Glucocorticoid Drugs: Their Benefits And Risks

Course overview

Glucocorticoids, because of their anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties, are among the most widely prescribed classes of drugs in the world. Their use is critical for the treatment of autoimmune and pulmonary diseases, allergic reactions, cerebral edema and certain types of cancer. They are also used for physiologic replacement therapy and as potent immunosuppressants to prevent organ transplant rejection and graft vs. host disease. Long-term glucocorticoid use (more than three months), however, has a number of downsides, one of which is an increased risk of certain infectious diseases. This module discusses the use of glucocorticoids and focuses on three unusual infectious diseases that occur in patients using the drugs for an extended time. Because of their widespread use and application, nurses in most all specialties should be knowledgeable about glucocorticoids.