This hormone controls a variety of metabolic functions in the body. Synthetically produced corticosteroids are used to reduce inflammation and suppress activity of the immune system. The most commonly prescribed drug of this type is Prednisone. They are most often prescribed for skin and joint symptoms of lupus. It may take months before these drugs demonstrate a beneficial effect.
Side effects are rare, and consist of occasional diarrhea or rashes.
Some antimalarial drugs, such as quinine and chloroquine, can affect the eyes. The manufacturer suggests an eye exam before starting the drug and one exam every six months thereafter. However, your physician might suggest a yearly exam is sufficient. These drugs act in a similar manner to the corticosteroid drugs in that they suppress inflammation and tend to suppress the immune system. The side effects of these drugs include anemia, low white blood cell count, and increased risk of infection.