Patient information leafletsMany people who have been on steroids for some time may experience weakness of the legs and arms. If you are able, walking is the best exercise for improving and keeping the strength in your legs. If you are unable to do this we can arrange for you to see a physiotherapist who will suggest other alternatives
Information and advice when taking steroids
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NHS Borders
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"Information given on this site is not meant to take the place of a talk with your doctor or health worker."
You have been prescribed a short course of steroids. The two main steroid tablets commonly prescribed are Dexamethasone and Prednisolone.
The course may last for two to three weeks, and it is usual for the dose to be gradually reduced. A maintenance dose may then be prescribed over a longer period of time.
As with many medications steroids can have side effects. This leaflet gives information about possible side effects and how to help minimise any you may experience. If you are concerned in any way please do not hesitate to speak to your doctor or nurse.
Based on NHS Lothian (2014) Information and Advice for Patients taking Steroids
Some people may have indigestion or heartburn while taking steroids. Stomach protecting medication, for example Omeprazole or Lansoprazole, will be prescribed to help prevent this. If you suffer from indigestion while taking steroids it is important to tell your doctor or nurse.
While taking steroids you may find that your appetite increases or improves. When you have been unwell this is seen as a good thing. Having cravings for different foods is also not uncommon.
Steroids can cause problems with high levels of sugar in your blood. It is important to try and eat a balanced diet.
As already mentioned, steroids can increase the level of sugar in your blood. High sugar levels can cause you to feel very thirsty and can also make you pass water more often. If you are experiencing these symptoms it is important to tell your doctor or nurse. A simple urine or blood test can show the extent of the problem and advice and/or treatment will be given.
You may find it difficult to sleep at night, this can happen if the tablets are taken late in the day. You should avoid taking your steroids any later than 2pm. If you are having any difficulty sleeping, if you can it is better to take you tablets in the morning after breakfast.
Sometimes steroids can make you feel anxious, agitated or even restless. If this is a problem it is important to tell your doctor or nurse who may consider reducing the dose of the steroid you are taking. Relaxation techniques such as breathing exercises or listening to calming music may help you control or even stop any feelings of anxiety or agitation. Other complementary therapies may also be helpful. Your doctor or nurse will be happy to discuss this further with you.
You will be given a card with information on your steroid treatment. Please carry this card with you so that it can be shown to your doctor, dentist and nurse.
Steroid tablets come in different doses. They tend to look similar so some people are unsure of the exact dose they are taking. To avoid any confusion it is helpful to have your tablets with you when you see the doctor.
You must not stop taking your tablets unless your doctor has advised you to do so.
Reducing steroids is usually done slowly, your doctor may tell you to reduce the dose every week before you stop taking them.
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