Corticosteroids (e.g. prednisolone, methylprednisolone, triamcinolone) are lab-made copies of the hormone cortisol. They quickly damp down inflammation, which is why the UK healthcare system uses them in short courses or single injections to control arthritis flares, polymyalgia rheumatica, lupus or gout. A steroid joint injection can give weeks to months of relief in a single knee, shoulder or hand. Long-term oral use is avoided where possible because of side-effects like weight gain, raised blood sugar, thinning skin, mood changes and osteoporosis.
What is corticosteroid?
Corticosteroid: Corticosteroids (prednisolone, methylprednisolone, hydrocortisone) rapidly reduce inflammation but have long-term side effects: weight gain, high blood sugar, bone thinning, mood changes. Used short-term for flares or as targeted joint injections.
Last updated 2026-07-04. This is general information, not a substitute for personalised medical advice.