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Disease Modifying Drugs & Therapies

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If you have experienced any adverse side effects from a medication or therapy - Report it

Corticosteroids - Steroids                          

It is unclear exactly how steroids work, they possibly  act by partly suppressing the immune system and / or by reducing fluid accumulation around the site of nerve damage. Studies have shown that steroids are effective in speeding up recovery from relapse but make no difference either to the degree of recovery or to the long-term progression of the condition.

Treatment may be in hospital or at home and the drug given orally or intravenously. It has been demonstrated that combining steroid therapy with planned multidisciplinary team care is superior to administering drug therapy alone.

Side effects may occur                                                                                                                                                                                                                 

Short-term side effects of steroids are usually minor and transient.

Long-term treatment should normally be avoided due to side effects including:

• Acne.
• Cataracts.
• Deterioration of the head of the thigh bone.
• Diabetes.
• Osteoporosis - thinning of the bones.
• Thinning of the skin.
• Weight gain.

Administration                                                                                                                                                                                                                                

Orally

• Cortisone.
• Prednisone.
• Decadron.

Injection

• Hydrocortisone
• Methylprednisolone.

Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH) may be prescribed, the drug stimulates the release of cortisol in the body.

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