Systemic corticosteroids in dermatological practice. Part I - Main adverse effects

Abstract

Systemic corticosteroids have been used in dermatological practice for approximately 60 years due to their anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects. The challenge of corticosteroid therapy is to counterbalance the desirable actions and undesirable pharmacological effects. Unfortunately, advanced understanding of the mechanisms of action of corticosteroids has not resulted in the development of minimal toxicity regimens. In this article, we report the main pharmacological properties of systemic corticosteroids, their major indications in clinical practice and the adverse effects of high doses and/or prolonged administration. ©2007 by Anais Brasileiros de Dermatologia.