Steroid treatments for arthritis 'may be possible with fewer side effects'

This study was mostly focused on application in the treatment of Addison's disease and congenital adrenal hyperplasia, but the researchers stated that with further development, it could lead to improved therapies for other conditions that respond to steroid treatment, includingrheumatoid arthritis and asthma. Dr Mark Nixon of the British Heart Foundation Centre for Cardiovascular Science at the University of Edinburgh said:"The discovery of this selective corticosterone pump in fat cells could lead to a completely new approach in our search for safer steroid medications." The Arthritis Research UK view Dr Natalie Carter, head of research liaison and evaluation at Arthritis Research UK, said:"This is a very interesting study that could have an impact on the treatment of those living with rheumatoid arthritis. Corticosteroids have been a cornerstone of managing the inflammation caused by this debilitating condition that affects more than 400,000 people in the UK. However, a small number of people do experience side effects including weight gain, thinning of the bones and indigestion. "We look forward to seeing future studies and any possible new treatments that would reduce the side effects that some people have to live with on a daily basis."
Source: Arthritis Research UK - Category: Rheumatology Source Type: news