Reducing Adverse Effects of Glucocorticoids

Glucocorticoids are commonly used to treat many and potentially life-threatening conditions in dogs. However, glucocorticoids can have undesirable and potentially devastating complications, including polyuria, polydipsia, gastrointestinal hemorrhage and hypercoagulability. Although some of these adverse effects are common, it can be difficult to predict the severity of these complications. As the number, frequency, and intensity of glucocorticoid complications increase, owners may be inclined to reduce or discontinue the medication, leaving the underlying disorder untreated. Based on our current and ongoing research, this session will review glucocorticoid adverse effects and discuss methods to reduce unwanted adverse effects and complications from glucocorticoid therapy in dogs.