What are inhaled corticosteroids?
Definition Inhaled corticosteroids are glucocorticoids (a class of steroid hormones that are synthesized by the adrenal cortex and have anti-inflammatory activity) formulated to be used in the respiratory tract and lungs. Purpose Inhaled corticosteroids are glucocorticoid compounds designed to be applied directly to the tissues of the respiratory tract. There are two types. The intranasal are deposited into the nasal passages and may be used to treat nasal polyps, perennial allergic rhinitis, seasonal allergic rhinitis, and recurrent chronic sinusitis. The second type is used when the steroids are designed for deposition further into the respiratory tract. These are used for treatment of chronic asthma and prevention of asthmatic attacks. Because they have anti-inflammatory effects, corticosteroids are invaluable in treatment of asthma and other respiratory conditions which are associated with an allergic reaction. In many cases, the corticosteroids are life saving.
Inhaled corticosteroids are anti-inflammatory medicines that work on the underlying cause of asthma symptoms—inflammation in the lungs. They are similar to natural corticosteroid hormones produced by the body’s adrenal glands. Corticosteroids work in several ways: they reduce swelling and irritation in the airways, make the cells in the airways less sensitive to asthma triggers, and decrease mucus. The National Institute of Health (NIH) has developed guidelines to help physicians manage asthma. These guidelines may be considered together with other information by your child’s doctor to determine individual patient treatment needs. For patients who need a controller medication for persistent asthma, the NIH guidelines recommend inhaled corticosteroids as the preferred therapy.
