Steroids are some of the most familiar, and at the same time, most controversial means of medication out in the market nowadays. There are several kinds of steroids, and in a nutshell, these are medications which mimic the function of hormones in the body, with anabolic steroids being one which emulates testosterone, which is a known male sex hormones. While there are several means of taking steroids, such as injections and the like, oral steroids are some of the most common. Here are some more in-depth information regarding this particular kind of steroid.
What exactly are they?
Oral steroids are those which are taken in by the mouth, as opposed to other steroid types which are administered via spray, topical application, drops, or nasal spray. They are popular simply because they are easy to consume, as you would with other medications. Also, as with other steroids, these work just like other bodily hormones would and are used to treat a variety of diseases. In the case of oral steroids, they work to fix inflammation, as well as influence the work of several hormones.
What are the different kinds?
Oral steroids are further classified into two categories. One category are the glucocorticoids, and some of the steroids that belong to this category include Bethamethasone, Dexamethasone, Hydrocotisone, Methylprednisolone, Deflazacort, among others. The other group of oral steroids are known are mineralcorticoids, and are used for replacing the steroids in the body which it is not capable of producing itself. A popular example of this is fludrocortisone.
Can you take them while pregnant?
For women, steroids are a medication of concern if you are pregnant. This is because they may alter the level of hormones in the body. Studies have also shown that it increases the risk for cleft palate and/or lips in babies, and thus doctors should be able to consider.