Steroids Explained: Uses, Short Courses, and Key Risks

What steroids are and how they work

Steroids reduce inflammation and suppress overactive immune responses. This can help relieve symptoms such as swelling, pain, breathlessness, and severe allergic reactions.

Steroids are used for many conditions in primary care, but they are prescribed carefully because of their potential side effects.

Different types of steroids

Steroids come in different forms, each with different risk profiles.

• Inhaled steroids, commonly used for asthma and some lung conditions
• Topical steroids, such as creams or ointments for skin conditions
• Oral steroids, taken as tablets for short courses or longer treatment
• Injectable steroids, used in specific situations

The form and dose influence both benefit and risk.

Short courses of oral steroids

Short courses of oral steroids are often prescribed for acute flare-ups, such as severe asthma symptoms, allergic reactions, or inflammatory conditions.

When used for a short period, steroids can be effective and are generally well tolerated. GPs prescribe the lowest effective dose for the shortest necessary duration.

Short courses are different from long-term steroid use and carry a lower risk of serious side effects.

When steroids may not be appropriate

Steroids are not suitable for every condition. They may be avoided where:

• there is an active or untreated infection
• symptoms are mild and likely to settle without treatment
• risks outweigh expected benefit
• alternative treatments are safer

A GP will consider these factors before prescribing.

Possible side effects of steroids

Side effects depend on the dose, duration, and individual factors. Short courses may cause:

• temporary mood or sleep changes
• increased appetite
• indigestion
• fluid retention

Longer or repeated courses increase the risk of more serious side effects, which is why review and caution are important.

Steroids and infections

Steroids can reduce the body’s immune response. This can increase susceptibility to infection or mask signs of infection.

For this reason, GPs consider infection risk carefully and may avoid steroids or advise additional monitoring in certain situations.

Stopping steroids safely

Short courses of steroids can usually be stopped as advised by your GP. Longer courses may require gradual dose reduction to allow the body to adjust.

It is important not to stop steroids suddenly unless advised, particularly after prolonged use.

Steroids in remote GP care

Many steroid prescriptions can be safely assessed during a remote GP consultation, particularly for known conditions or flare-ups.

If examination or tests are needed to assess safety, this will be explained and appropriate next steps advised.