Examples

These are all corticosteroid medicines that you take by mouth (orally) in tablet form. Dexamethasone is available as a liquid.

How It Works

These medicines can reduce inflammation.

Why It Is Used

These medicines are usually used for polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) and giant cell arteritis (GCA). They can quickly reduce inflammation caused by these conditions. Higher doses of corticosteroids are taken for giant cell arteritis than for polymyalgia rheumatica.

How Well It Works

Most people with polymyalgia rheumatica or giant cell arteritis respond quickly to corticosteroid treatment and can usually stop taking the medicine after 1 to 2 years. Some people keep taking low doses of corticosteroids for several years to control symptoms such as pain and stiffness.¹

Side Effects

All medicines have side effects. But many people don't feel the side effects, or they are able to deal with them. Ask your pharmacist about the side effects of each medicine you take. Side effects are also listed in the information that comes with your medicine.

Here are some important things to think about:

• Usually the benefits of the medicine are more important than any minor side effects.
• Side effects may go away after you take the medicine for a while.
• If side effects still bother you and you wonder if you should keep taking the medicine, call your doctor. He or she may be able to lower your dose or change your medicine. Do not suddenly quit taking your medicine unless your doctor tells you to.

Call 911 or other emergency services right away if you have:

• Trouble breathing.
• Hives.
• Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor if you have:

• Signs of an infection, such as a sore throat, fever, sneezing, or coughing.
• Belly pain, nausea, or vomiting that won't go away.
• Bloody or black, tarry stools.
• Rapid weight gain.
• Changes in your eyes, including blurred vision or eye pain.
• Muscle cramps, pain, or weakness.
• Changes in skin, including acne or reddish purple lines.
• Increased thirst, especially with frequent urination.

Common side effects of this medicine include:

• Increased appetite.
• Nervousness or restlessness.

With long-term use, common side effects may include:

• Weight gain.
• Mood changes.
• Trouble sleeping.
• Bruising easily
• Loss of bone calcium and bone thinning (osteoporosis).
• Increased risk of bacteria infections and certain viruses, such as shingles. Corticosteroids weaken the immune system.
• High blood pressure.
• Problems with blood sugar levels (diabetes).