Steroids (also known as corticosteroids) are made naturally in the body, but they can also be made and used as drugs. Brain tumours and their treatments can both lead to swelling in the brain. Steroids may help to reduce this swelling.
They can be given before, during and after surgery and radiation therapy. The most commonly used steroid for people with brain tumours is dexamethasone. It is usually given as a tablet but may be given in a vein (intravenously) if needed.
Side effects of steroids
The side effects you may experience with steroids depend on the dose and length of treatment:
| Short-term use | You may experience increased appetite and weight gain; trouble sleeping; restlessness; mood swings; anxiety; and, in rare cases, more serious changes to thinking and behaviour. In people who have diabetes, steroids can quickly lead to high or unstable blood sugar levels. These short-term side effects can be managed. Eating before taking steroids can reduce the chance of them irritating your stomach. |
| Longer-term use | If steroids are taken for several months, they can cause puffy skin (fluid retention or oedema) in the feet, hands or face; high blood pressure; weight gain; unstable blood sugar levels; diabetes; muscle weakness; and loss of bone density (osteoporosis). You are more likely to get infections. Your doctor may change your dose to manage your side effects. Most side effects go away after treatment ends. |
Anticonvulsants
You may be given anticonvulsants to help control seizures which can also affect your mood and energy. An experienced counsellor, psychologist or psychiatrist can help you manage any mood swings or behavioural changes. If you or your family are worried about side effects, talk to a doctor, nurse or call Cancer Council 13 11 20.
An experienced counsellor, psychologist or psychiatrist can help you manage any mood swings or behavioural changes. If you or your family are worried about side effects, talk to your doctor or nurse or call Cancer Council 13 11 20.
→ READ MORE: Palliative treatment
Video: Steroids for brain cancer
Watch this short video to learn how steroids can be used to treat brain cancer.
More resources
Prof Lindy Jeffree, Director of Neurosurgery, Alfred Health, VIC; Caitriona Nienaber, 13 11 20 Consultant, Cancer Council WA; Prof Tamara Ownsworth, Clinical Neuropsychologist and Research Director, The Hopkins Centre, Griffith University, QLD; A/Prof Hao-Wen Sim, Medical Oncologist, The Kinghorn Cancer Centre and Chris O’Brien Lifehouse, NSW; Megan Trevethan, Clinical Specialist Occupational Therapy – Cancer and Lymphoedema Services, Princess Alexandra Hospital, QLD; Chris Twyford, Cancer Specialist Nurse, Canberra Health Services, Cancer and Ambulatory Support, ACT; Dr Adam Wells, Clinical Academic Consultant Neurosurgeon, The University of Adelaide, Royal Adelaide Hospital, SA.
View the Cancer Council NSW editorial policy.
