What should you know about over-the-counter oral corticosteroids?

Corticosteroids reduce inflammation and alter immune activity. A tablet or liquid spreads through the body, so its effects are broader than a treatment placed near one painful joint. The right choice depends on the diagnosis, infection risk, other medicines, blood pressure, blood sugar, stomach health, bone health and any previous steroid exposure.

Do not assume a product marketed for pain or inflammation contains an appropriate steroid, and do not use someone else’s prescription. Treatments such as Cortisone Injection, Epidural Steroid Injection or Facet Joint Injection place medicine in a targeted area, but they still require a clinician’s assessment.

Ask a pharmacist or doctor to identify the active ingredient and check whether it is suitable for you. Tell them about diabetes, high blood pressure, ulcers, osteoporosis, glaucoma, mood conditions, pregnancy and immune problems. If you already take a prescribed corticosteroid, follow the supplied schedule and never stop suddenly unless the prescriber gives specific instructions.

Keep a record of the medicine, dose and start date. Report new infection symptoms, marked mood or sleep changes, severe stomach pain, vision changes or unusual swelling. A clinician may recommend a different pain plan or physiotherapy once the cause is understood.

Get urgent help for difficulty breathing, facial swelling, black or bloody stools, severe confusion, chest pain, sudden weakness, or severe vision loss. Seek prompt medical advice for fever or a wound that becomes red and draining while taking a steroid.

Ask whether a corticosteroid is appropriate for the confirmed problem, what form is safest, how it could affect your conditions and medicines, how long it should be used, and how it will be stopped or reviewed.