Steroids for brain tumours

Drugs called steroids are given to help reduce the swelling around brain tumours. They can make you feel better by improving the symptoms caused by increased pressure inside the skull, such as headaches. The most commonly used steroid is called dexamethasone.

You may have steroids before, during and after your main brain tumour treatment. It is important to take them exactly as your nurse or doctor has explained. Your pharmacist or nurse will give you a steroid card. Always carry this card with you. It means in an emergency a doctor or nurse will know you are taking steroids.

Never stop taking your steroids suddenly, as this can make you ill. Your doctor will give you advice about slowly reducing the dose when it is time to stop taking them.

Side effects of steroids

Steroids can cause the following side effects:

• Indigestion – taking your tablets with food will help. Tell your doctor if you have tummy pain. They may prescribe drugs to help or prevent this.
• Increased appetite and weight gain – if you are worried about gaining weight, talk to your doctor or nurse.
• Difficulty sleeping – taking your tablets in the morning may help your sleep.
• Feeling restless or agitated – tell your doctor if this is a problem.
• Raised blood sugar levels – tell your clinical nurse specialist or doctor if you are always thirsty or peeing more often than usual. You may need a simple blood or urine test to check your blood sugar levels.

Taking high doses of steroids for a long time may cause more side effects. These can include:

• mood changes, such as feeling sad
• swollen feet and legs
• raised blood pressure.

You may also be more likely to get an infection. Your muscles may get weaker, especially at the tops of your legs. It is important to do some regular, gentle exercise.

Talk to your doctor or specialist nurse if you are worried about any side effects. These will go away over time as your steroids are reduced.

We have more information about steroids.