Greater Glasgow and Clyde Medicines
Key to symbols The medicine should be initiated by, or on the advice of a specialist, but is suitable for continuation by a GP The medicine should only be used and prescribed by a specialist Indicates the preferred choice within a class or group of medicines
The medicine should be initiated by, or on the advice of a specialist, but is suitable for continuation by a GP
The medicine should only be used and prescribed by a specialist
Indicates the preferred choice within a class or group of medicines
6.3. Corticosteroids

6.3.2. Glucocorticoid therapy

Preferred List
DEXAMETHASONE

Prescribing Notes:

Uses include suppression of inflammatory and allergic disorders, cerebral oedema associated with malignancy, croup and chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting.

For Formulary advice relating to dexamethasone intravitreal implant, see section 11.4.1

Dexamethasone 40mg tablets (Neofordex®) are not recommended for use in NHS Scotland and are non-Formulary

BNF Link

HYDROCORTISONE (tablets, capsules)

Prescribing Notes:

  • Used in adrenocortical insufficiency, shock and hypersensitivity reactions.
  • Exludes hydrocortisone modified-release tablets/capsules (Plenadren® and Efmody®) which are not recommended for use by the SMC and are non-Formulary.

BNF Link

PREDNISOLONE

Restrictions:

Excludes 25mg tablets

Prescribing Notes:

Used in many inflammatory and allergic disorders.

BNF Link

Total Formulary
Specialist and GP
BETAMETASONE

Restrictions:

Restricted to specialist initiation.

BNF Link

Specialist and GP
BUDESONIDE (capsules)

Restrictions:

The treatment of autoimmune hepatitis it is restricted to specialist initiation in non-cirrhotic patients who are intolerant of conventional oral steroids (prednisolone) with severe corticosteroid-related side effects (actual or anticipated) such as psychosis, poorly controlled diabetes or osteoporosis.

BNF Link

Specialist and GP
METHYLPREDNISOLONE

Restrictions:

Restricted to specialist initiation.

BNF Link

Specialist and GP
TRIAMCINOLONE

Restrictions:

Restricted to specialist initiation.

BNF Link