CORTICOSTEROID INDUCED PSYCHIATRIC DISORDERS

ABSTRACT Corticosteroids are widely used for its anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressant properties. It can be given by systemic, oral or inhalation. Corticosteroids are associated with a wide range of adverse events which include diabetes, osteoporosis, glaucoma and psychiatric mood swings. Mood swings can be observed within first two weeks, but discontinuation of drug can reverse this. Psychiatric disorders with prescription corticosteroids are classified as substance-induced mood disorders according to DSM-IV criteria. Mania is more commonly found than depression, but depression is triggered by steroid withdrawal. All these psychiatric symptoms are reversible and disappear with the discontinuation of drug. KEYWORDS: Corticosteroid, Mood Swings, Depression