From: phanilah in response to Message 1 Sent: 3/6/2005 5:25 PM
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“It is this suppression of inflammation and its consequences that has made the corticosteroids such valuable therapeutic agents indeed, at time lifesaving. It is also this property that give them a nearly unique potential for therapeutic disaster”.<o
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- Philip Swann, BSc, Phd:
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To help prevent negative side effects, the strategy is to use the lowest effective dosage for the shortest period of time. When higher doses over longer periods are required, it is advised to withdraw slowly, by reducing the dosage over a period of time. Side effects dependent on the dose and duration of treatment.<o
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Because inflammation is an important part of the body’s ability to fight infection, the use of corticosteroids (SAIDs) can decrease the body’s ability to fight bacterial, viral and parasitic infections (as well as mask an increase in temperature). In addition, the suppression of the immune system (how SAIDs control allergic reactions) can also effect the body’s ability to defend itself against infection and delay healing. To tie in with this, because of the use of corticosteroids inhibits macrophage and fibroblast cell response for repairing injured tissue, the effect of impeding normal tissue metabolism in a joint can slow/prevent normal process of repairing tissue damage.<o
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Laminitis is also a very real risk of corticosteroid use, especially with synthetic corticosteroids. The higher the dose of potent corticosteroids, the more likely this toxicity is to happen.<o
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The use of high dose SAIDs for prolonged periods of time can also damage the adrenal glands, cause muscle atrophy and cause (or worsen) gastro-intestinal ulcers. Damage to the adrenal glands can effect the body’s ability to produce the required natural amounts, resulting in drug dependency. <o
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The more common side effects of corticosteroid use are increased water consumption, increase urine production and increase appetite, while at the same time causing the body to retain extra sodium and excrete calcium and potassium. The imbalance of sodium
otassium/calcium can cause cramping and muscular weakness. <o
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Special Considerations:<o
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Cushing’s Disease – caused by excess corticosteroids<o
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Addison’s Disease – caused by insufficient mineralcorticoids and sometime glucocorticoids.<o
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- Both diseases can be fatal and can occur from overuse/abrupt withdrawal after prolonged use of corticosteroids.<o
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Do not give corticosteroids with vaccines, due to effects on immune system<o
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Do not give corticosteroids with eye ulcerations – due to delayed healing properties<o
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Corticosteroids can be used to help control growth of proud flesh (granulation tissue) – the use of corticosteroids a few days after the wound has occurred should have no adverse effect on healing.<o
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Pregnant mares – avoid giving corticosteroids during pregnancy – excessive levels may cause birth defects. Caution should also be taken in giving corticosteroids with later term mares, due to potential to induce labor. <o
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Young foals – avoid use of corticosteroids due to suppression of immune system. When used, often used in conjunction with anti-ulcer medication.<o
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Warning: Corticosteroids + Lasix increases the risk of electrolyte imbalance due to Ca/K losses.<o
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Warning: Corticosteroids and NSAIDs given at the same time may increase the risk of ulcers.<o
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MB II Arabians
Colorado
American Foundation Bred
CMK/Fadjur/Azraff-Ferzon
*****
GAHeC
Colorado Arabian Horse Club
Region 8
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