FROM THERAPEUTIC USE TO SIDE EFFECT: THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN CORTICOSTEROIDS AND CUSHING’S SYNDROME

Abstract

 Corticosteroids are steroid hormones produced by the adrenal glands, essential for metabolism, immune response, and stress regulation. Among them, cortisol is the main endogenous glucocorticoid. In clinical practice, synthetic corticosteroids are widely used due to their strong anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects, being prescribed for autoimmune, inflammatory, and allergic diseases. However, prolonged or unsupervised use can lead to serious complications, such as iatrogenic Cushing’s syndrome, resulting from excessive exposure to glucocorticoids. This condition causes physical and metabolic alterations, including central obesity, hyperglycemia, osteoporosis, and adrenal atrophy. This study, based on a literature review, aims to analyze the impacts of irrational corticosteroid use on public health, emphasizing the importance of professional guidance and rational pharmacotherapy. Data were collected from SciELO, PubMed, and LILACS databases, focusing on terms such as glucocorticoids, Cushing’s syndrome, rational drug use, and medication safety. The findings highlight that inappropriate corticosteroid use is closely related to increased clinical complications and reinforces the crucial role of pharmacists in ensuring the safe and effective use of these therapeutic agents.