The use of corticosteroids in the treatment of ulcerative colitis: a brief overview

Aleksandar Radlović; Teodora  Safiye; Elvis Mahmutović

doi:10.5937/arhfarm75-57020

Aleksandar Radlović University of Kragujevac - Faculty of Medical Sciences, Kragujevac, Serbia
Teodora Safiye State University of Novi Pazar, Department of Psychology, Novi Pazar, Serbia
Elvis Mahmutović State University of Novi Pazar, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Novi Pazar, Serbia

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5937/arhfarm75-57020

Keywords: corticosteroids, inflammatory bowel disease, ulcerative colitis

Abstract

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease characterized by the relapsing inflammation of the colonic mucosa. Corticosteroids have long been a cornerstone in the management of moderate to severe UC, particularly during acute flares. This review aims to provide a focused overview of the rationale behind corticosteroid use, including their mechanisms of action, clinical efficacy, and challenges in everyday practice such as steroid dependency, adverse effects, and inappropriate long-term use. Despite their effectiveness in inducing remission, corticosteroids are not suitable for maintenance therapy and should be used judiciously in combination with other treatments. Current best-practice recommendations emphasize minimizing steroid exposure and encouraging the use of steroid-sparing agents. Close monitoring by specialists remains essential for optimizing outcomes and ensuring patient safety.

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