Steroids
Steroids, also known as corticosteroids, come as injectable and oral medications. They can work to alleviate inflammation and reduce damage and pain in people with rheumatoid arthritis. Common options include prednisone, prednisolone, methylprednisolone, hydrocortisone, dexamethasone, cortisone, and betamethasone. While steroids are an effective treatment for rheumatoid arthritis, they may cause certain side effects. These include stomach ulcers, high blood sugar, high blood pressure, osteoporosis, cataracts, and irritability. In addition, steroids should only be used in the short term to prevent possible complications in the long term. [4]
