Corticosteroids are a group of anti-inflammatory drugs similar to the hormone cortisol produced in the body. Corticosteroids reduce the inflammation associated with many diseases, including many forms of arthritis.

They can be taken in a variety of forms, such as pills, injections, inhalers, nasal sprays, topical creams, drops, ointments, enemas, foams and suppositories. Most corticosteroids are available only with a physician’s prescription. However, some topical creams are available over the counter.

Corticosteroids are used to treat a wide variety of conditions and diseases, such as joint pain, cancer, asthma and allergies. The oral and injected types of corticosteroids form a major part of treatment plans for many chronic pain conditions. Many inflammatory conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis and gout, are first treated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). If these drugs do not control the symptoms, corticosteroids are often the next line of treatment.

Corticosteroids can have a wide variety of serious side effects, particularly when oral forms are taken for long periods. These include acne, weight gain, diabetes, osteoporosis and decreased immune response. Many medications can interfere with corticosteroids. For these reasons, the medication should be taken only under the guidance of a physician.

Corticosteroids are different from the anabolic steroids taken by some athletes to enhance performance. That type of steroid is banned in many sports.