Glükokortikoidkúra

Glükokortikoidkúra, or glucocorticoid therapy, refers to the medical treatment using synthetic corticosteroids, which are man-made versions of hormones produced by the adrenal glands. These medications are potent anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive agents. They work by reducing the activity of the immune system, which can alleviate symptoms associated with a wide range of inflammatory and autoimmune conditions.

The use of glucocorticoids is indicated for numerous medical situations. Common applications include managing chronic inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and asthma. They are also frequently prescribed for acute inflammatory reactions, allergic responses, and certain types of cancer to reduce swelling and suppress the immune system's overreaction. In organ transplantation, they are used to prevent the body from rejecting the new organ.

Glucocorticoid therapy can be administered in various forms, including oral tablets, inhaled medications, topical creams, and intravenous injections, depending on the condition being treated and its severity. The duration of treatment can range from short-term, high-dose courses for acute flare-ups to long-term, low-dose maintenance therapy for chronic conditions.

While effective, glucocorticoids can have significant side effects, especially with prolonged use. These can include weight gain, increased appetite, mood changes, insomnia, and a higher risk of infections. Long-term use may also lead to bone thinning (osteoporosis), high blood pressure, diabetes, and adrenal suppression, where the body's own production of these hormones decreases. Therefore, glucocorticoid therapy is carefully monitored by healthcare professionals, and dosages are typically tapered down gradually when discontinuing treatment to avoid withdrawal symptoms.