What it means
A corticosteroidkor-tih-koh-STER-oydA drug that acts like the hormones of the adrenal glands, used mainly to calm inflammation and the immune system.cortic/o cortex (the outer layer of the adrenal gland)-oid likeFull entry that comes in many forms: creams and ointments for itchy, inflamed skin; a nasal spray for allergies; a paste for mouth sores; and injections into joints or muscle for arthritis and other inflammation.
For the nurse
Teach thin application of creams and short courses on the face. Joint injections can raise the blood glucose for a few days, so clients with diabetes should check it more often.
At a glance
| Drug class | corticosteroid (glucocorticoid) |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Kenalog (injection, topical), Nasacort Allergy 24HR (nasal), Zilretta (joint injection) |
| Also written | Kenalog, Nasacort, Zilretta |
Related terms
osteoarthritis
A long-term joint disease in which the cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones wears away.
corticosteroid
A drug that acts like the hormones of the adrenal glands, used mainly to calm inflammation and the immune system.
inflammation
The body's protective response to injury or infection, with redness, heat, swelling, pain and sometimes loss of function.