🆕 research adds to the growing body of evidence suggesting that glucocorticoids have significant effects on the brain, which could explain their neuropsychiatric side effects. MedTwitter
Glucocorticoids, a class of synthetic steroids with immunosuppressive properties, are prescribed for a wide range of conditions, includingHowever, they are also associated with potentially serious metabolic, cardiovascular, and musculoskeletal side effects as well as neuropsychiatric side effects such as depression, mania, and cognitive impairment.
The groups were similar with respect to sex, education, and smoking status. However, the systemic glucocorticoid group was slightly older . The effects of glucocorticoids on white matter were"pervasive," and the"most important finding" of the study, Meijer said."We were impressed by the fact white matter is so sensitive" to these drugs."
In addition, there was a significant association between inhaled glucocorticoid use and decreased grey matter volume of the amygdala, which Meijer said was surprising because studies have shown that glucocorticoids"can drive amygdala big time."Another surprise was that the results showed no hippocampal volume differences with steroid use, Meijer noted.