ABSTRACT
Synthetic corticosteroids (glucocorticoids, glucocorticosteroids and steroids) are analogues of endogenous adrenal steroid hormones and are widely used in dermatology. They have anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressive, antiproliferative and vasoconstrictor actions. Corticosteroids also have non-genomic actions, such as interactions with cellular membranes and receptors. After absorption corticosteroids bind to the carrier protein, transcortin and albumin. Steroids given for immunosuppression are usually given as a single daily dose in the morning to minimize adrenal suppression. During the COVID-19 pandemic, people in the UK were advised to shield if on high-dose corticosteroids for 4 weeks or longer, or on lower-dose corticosteroids for 4 weeks or longer, in combination with other disease modifying medication. Bisphosphonates are the agents of choice for treatment and prevention of osteoporosis. They slow the rate of bone turnover. Alendronic acid or risedronate sodium are first-choice drugs, and disodium etidronate is an alternative.
