US Medical Term · medications
Corticosteroid
Corticosteroide
In 9 languages
| Language | Term |
|---|---|
| English | Corticosteroid |
| Spanish (Español) | Corticosteroide |
| Chinese (中文) | 皮質類固醇 |
| Korean (한국어) | 코르티코스테로이드 |
| Vietnamese (Tiếng Việt) | Corticosteroid |
| Filipino (Tagalog) | Corticosteroid |
| Portuguese (Português) | Corticosteroide |
| Thai (ภาษาไทย) | คอร์ติโคสเตียรอยด์ |
| Japanese (日本語) | コルチコステロイド |
What it means
Corticosteroids are powerful anti-inflammatory medications that mimic hormones produced by the adrenal glands. They reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system. They are used to treat conditions such as asthma, allergic reactions, rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and skin conditions. Common corticosteroids include prednisone, methylprednisolone, dexamethasone, and hydrocortisone. They come in many forms: pills, inhalers, skin creams, eye drops, and injections. Short-term use is generally safe, but long-term use can cause side effects including weight gain, elevated blood sugar, bone thinning, and increased infection risk. Never stop corticosteroids suddenly after prolonged use — your doctor should taper the dose.
How to say it
Sentences a patient might use with a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or insurer:
Is prednisone a steroid and what condition is it treating?
¿La prednisona es un esteroide y qué condición está tratando?
What side effects should I watch for while taking a corticosteroid?
¿Qué efectos secundarios debo observar mientras tomo un corticosteroide?
Do I need to taper off this steroid or can I stop it right away?
¿Necesito reducir gradualmente este esteroide o puedo dejarlo de inmediato?
Where you'll see it
Related terms
Sources
Last reviewed: September 2026