Corticosteroid Injections: A Review of Sex-Related Side Effects

Orthopedics. 2017 Mar 1;40(2):e211-e215. doi: 10.3928/01477447-20161116-07. Epub 2016 Nov 23.

Abstract

Corticosteroid injections are used as a nonoperative modality to combat acute inflammation when conservative treatments fail. As female patients are regularly seen by orthopedic physicians, it is essential to identify and understand potential sex-related side effects. The aim of this article is to examine available literature for sex-related side effects of orthopedic-related corticosteroid injections. Although the incidence is low, sex-related side effects, such as abnormal menstruation, lactation disturbances, facial flushing, and hirsutism, are associated with corticosteroid injections. Physicians should be aware of these female-specific side effects and relay this information as part of the informed consent process. [Orthopedics. 2017; 40(2):e211-e215.].

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones / administration & dosage
  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones / adverse effects*
  • Female
  • Flushing / chemically induced*
  • Glucocorticoids / administration & dosage
  • Glucocorticoids / adverse effects*
  • Hirsutism / chemically induced*
  • Humans
  • Injections / adverse effects
  • Lactation Disorders / chemically induced*
  • Menstruation Disturbances / chemically induced*
  • Sex Factors

Substances

  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones
  • Glucocorticoids