You will have regular appointments with your doctor to monitor the effect of the steroids. This factsheet should help you to discuss any queries about your treatment and its side effects with your doctor or chemotherapy nurse. They can help and advise you. What steroids look like A clear fluid after being dissolved from powder, or tablets. The colour and dose of the tablets depends on the type of steroid used.
Soluble tablets are available for people who have difficulty in swallowing.
They may be given through a central line which is inserted under the skin into a large vein near the collarbone. The tablets are swallowed with plenty of water. They may need to be taken at set times each day or may be given in short courses. Possible side effects Irritation of the stomach lining. Steroids can increase the production of stomach acid and lower the production of protective stomach mucus.