Drugs That Treat
Inflammation
(Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs)
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The Generic (common) Name of the drug is
listed first, followed by a specific Product (brand) Name,
which is an example of that generic drug. To learn more
about an individual drug, click on its Generic Name or
Product Name.
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Examples:
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What is a
steroidal anti-inflammatory drug?
Corticosteroids are naturally occurring substances that the
body makes and needs. When these drugs are given by mouth,
tube or vein they are commonly called steroids (these drugs
are not the type steroids that some body builders use). They
have a variety of important functions. One of these
functions is to decrease inflammation in the body.
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Why is it used?
The doctor determines that the patient needs extra steroids
during an acute illness or injury, or the doctor may be
using the drug to decrease inflammation in the patient's
body.
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How long is it
used?
Sometimes this medicine is used only once. Under other
circumstances, the patient might need it indefinitely.
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Does it have
side effects?
Steroids are associated with many potential side effects
including: water retention, elevated blood sugar, anxiety
and confusion, elevated blood pressure, and increased risk
for infection. Usually, the nurse and doctor can manage
these side effects.
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