Steroids are very common in cancer care, and breast cancer is no different. Steroids may be prescribed for several reasons, ranging from direct treatment of the cancer to addressing side effects of other treatments.
Why are steroids prescribed for breast cancer?
While steroids are not a first-line treatment for breast cancer itself, they’re often used as a supportive therapy alongside other treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation or immunotherapy.
In breast cancer, steroids play many roles. These include:
- Reducing inflammation.
- Boosting appetite.
- Managing immune-related events triggered by immunotherapy.
- Regulating electrolyte balance and blood pressure.
- Reducing the risk of allergic reactions to treatment.
Read more about breast cancer treatment and care
When and how are steroids taken for breast cancer?
In patients with breast cancer, dexamethasone is one of the most common steroids prescribed, and can be administered orally or through intravenous injection. The method of administration and dose depends on many factors, including patient preference and disease severity.
Your exact dosing schedule may vary, too. For example, some people might need a higher dose for a short period of time, while others will take a lower dose in the days surrounding planned treatment.
Common risks and side effects of steroids
Unfortunately, steroids do come with numerous side effects that can interfere with your quality of life, such as:
- Swelling
- Changes in blood pressure
- Difficulty sleeping
- Gastrointestinal disturbances
- Mood swings
- High blood sugar
Long term, steroids can weaken your muscles, bones and immune system.
Tips for managing side effects of steroids
If you’re struggling with the side effects of steroids, reach out to your care team. Sometimes, all it takes is a slight dose adjustment to help you start feeling better. You should also make sure to follow their dosing instructions closely. Abruptly stopping steroids, especially after using them long-term, can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms.
Making some changes in your day-to-day life can also help reduce some of these side effects. When it comes to diet, eating balanced meals and making sure you stay hydrated can strengthen your immune system and regulate your blood sugar. If you’re having issues with your appetite, smaller, frequent meals may be easier to manage.
Since steroids weaken the immune system, they can increase your risk of developing infections. In addition to eating balanced meals, you should wash your hands regularly, keep any wounds clean and avoid others who are sick.
To avoid stomach discomfort, doctors usually advise taking oral steroids with food. This helps reduce irritation and lowers the risk of developing ulcers.
To protect your bones from long-term damage, try to exercise regularly and avoid smoking and drinking, if possible. Regular bone density tests are also essential for tracking bone health.
Sign up here to get the latest news, perspectives, and information about breast cancer sent directly to your inbox. Registration is free and only takes a minute.