A large class of highly useful drug
s similar to the human body's natural corticosteroid hormone
s used to treat many types of inflammation
. They are also sometimes used to suppress the immune system
(as is standard treatment following a transplant
). Treatment for asthma
has improved vastly since the introduction of corticosteroids.
Bad side effects include hypertension, fluid retention, and possibly even diabetes mellitus (with long-term treatment in high doses).
Since these drugs mimic the effects of hormones, the body's own production of them may cease. Sudden withdrawal of corticosteroid drugs after long-term treatment can therefore cause the symptoms of adrenal failure.
(Summarized from AMA literature)