RESP: CORTICOSTEROIDS (GLUCOCORTICOIDS) INHALED

Question 1

CORTICOSTEROIDS, INHALED: INDICATIONS

Answer 1

• Asthma

- COPD

Question 2

CORTICOSTEROIDS, INHALED: MOA

Answer 2

• Pass through PM and interact with receptors in the cytoplasm
• The activated receptor then passes into the nucleus to modify the transcription of a large number of genes
• Pro-inflammatory interleukins, cytokines and chemokines are downregulated, while anti-inflammatory proteins are upregulated
• In the airways, this reduces mucosal inflammation, widens the airways, and reduces mucus secretion
• This improves symptoms and reduces exacerbations in asthma and COPD

Question 3

CORTICOSTEROIDS, INHALED: ADVERSE EFFECTS

Answer 3

• Immunosuppressive effect can cause oral candidiasis (thrush infection)
• Hoarse voice
• Increased risk of pneumonia
• At very high doses when systemic side effects including adrenal suppression, growth retardation (children) and osteoporosis can occur

Question 4

CORTICOSTEROIDS, INHALED: WARNINGS

Answer 4

• Used with caution in COPD patients with a history of pneumonia
• In children, where there is potential for growth suppression.

Question 5

CORTICOSTEROIDS, INHALED: INTERACTIONS

Answer 5

NA

Question 6

CORTICOSTEROIDS, INHALED: EXAMPLES

Answer 6

• beclometasone
• budesonide
• fluticasone