What are the side effects of using steroids for treatment of rheumatoid arthritis?
One of the main side effects of using steroids for RA is weight gain. Steroids like cortisone etc can be very useful and helpful for the pain and swelling associated with RA, but unfortunately there are side effects that need to be considered and the least amount of steroid should be used to keep side effects to a minimum. Cortisone is often taken daily via an oral tablet, but when daily use is not desired it can also be taken “only when needed” like when going on vacation or when the patient is going to be more active than usual.