Corticosteroids or steroids are anti-inflammatory medicines that help treat a wide range of medical conditions. Corticosteroids are not the same as anabolic steroids, which help gain muscle mass.
Steroids are synthetic drugs that mimic the functioning of the cortisol hormone produced by the adrenal gland in our body. Antiparasitic medication like Ivermectin may be mistaken to be a steroid or antibiotic.
However, this article will explain if Ivermectin is a steroid or not.
Cortisol helps prevent the immune system from making the substance that causes inflammation in the body. Reducing the body’s natural defense system, i.e., the immune system helps treat autoimmune diseases like lupus.
However, people who have inflammatory conditions like asthma or eczema can take steroids under the guidance of a medical professional.
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Which diseases are treated with steroids?
A medical professional mainly prescribes steroids to treat diseases that cause inflammation in the body. The use of steroids can help manage the following health conditions:
- Asthma
- Lupus
- Vasculitis
- Sciatica
- Hay fever
- Frozen shoulder
- Multiple sclerosis
- Eczema and hives
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder
However, getting a proper medical diagnosis is essential before one takes steroids to treat such severe medical complications.
Also read: What is the Right Medicine for Scabies?
Can Ivermectin be called a steroid?
Ivermectin tablets are not steroids as they belong to the class of antiparasitic drugs. Ivermectin medication mainly works to treat parasitic infections of the intestinal tract, skin, and eye. On the other hand, steroids are medicines that work to treat inflammatory conditions like lupus or arthritis.
Ivermectin tablets have been approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration to treat intestinal strongyloidiasis and onchocerciasis. These two conditions occur due to parasitic worms. Online pharmacies also sell Ivermectin medication. Click here to purchase Ivermectin (Ivecop tablets) from our online medical store, Fordailymedicine.com.
NOTE: When a medical professional specifically prescribes Ivermectin tablets only then one should take the medicine. To know how to take Ivermectin tablets effectively, click here.
Also read: Is Ivermectin an Antibiotic?
What are the serious side effects of steroids?
Before taking corticosteroids for your health condition, discuss the pros and cons with your general physician. Taking steroids without the guidance of a medical professional can lead to significant health complications that can threaten your life.
Some of the side effects that can occur due to the administration of steroids are as follows:-
- Indigestion or heartburn
- Headaches or dizziness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Difficulty in sleeping
- High blood sugar levels
- Cataract or Glaucoma
- Increased risk of infections
- Weakening of the bones
- Water retention, swelling
- Increased appetite and weight gain
How are steroids administered?
As per the patient’s requirement, the need for steroid medication may arise. Steroids are available in the form of tablets, injections, syrups, solutions, creams, etc. As per the doctor’s advice, one can take steroids orally through the mouth or directly through the veins(intravenously). However, local steroid treatment options are preferable in most cases, reducing the risk of side effects.
Your general physician can help decide whether to administer steroids orally, topically, or through an injectable form. Therefore, discuss the possibility of any side effects with your doctor before taking the medication.
Conclusion
It is clear that Ivermectin is not a steroid. Steroids are pretty effective in suppressing the immune system and reducing inflammation in the body. That is why they are of extreme use while treating diseases like inflammatory bowel disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and lupus.
In the long run, the continuous use of steroids can trigger severe medical complications like kidney failure and liver damage and increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. It is important to have an effective treatment plan before you decide to take steroids.
Also read: Ivermectin tablet vs. Injection: Which is the better form?
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take other medicines with Ivermectin?
Ivermectin 3mg tablets can react negatively with medicines like blood thinners and lead to drug interaction. Hence, let your doctor know your complete medical history before taking Ivermectin medication.
When should I avoid taking Ivermectin?
Do not take Ivermectin if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Consult your doctor beforehand if you have pre-existing medical conditions like kidney or liver disease. One should never take Ivermectin with alcohol, as this can lead to severe side effects.
Does Ivermectin cause infertility?
Infertility is not a known side effect of Ivermectin medication, as per the US Food and Drug Administration. To know more about Infertility and its correlation with Ivermectin, click here.
Who manufactures Ivermectin medication?
Ivermectin is a generic medication that is produced by different manufacturers all over the world. In the United States, Ivermectin is sold under the popular brand name Stromectol, Sklice, and Soolantra. To buy Ivermectin medication online, visit our online medical store, Fordailymedicine.com.