Mental health symptoms are a possible side effect of corticosteroid therapy, a common line of treatment for inflammatory and autoimmune disorders. Examples of corticosteroids include dexamethasone, hydrocortisone, and prednisone.
Topical and oral use of corticosteroids do not cause bipolar disorder but may trigger symptoms that mimic the condition, like changes in mood, particularly mania.
Mania is a heightened mood characterized by increased energy, decreased need for sleep, irritability, racing thoughts, and agitation.
Other psychiatric symptoms triggered by corticosteroids may include depression, anxiety, and psychosis, also possible in bipolar disorder.
Not everyone using corticosteroids experiences these adverse effects. However, it’s important to ask the prescribing doctor about all the possible side effects, especially with prolonged use and high doses, common risk factors of steroid-induced psychiatric symptoms.
Read more about the uses, side effects, and interactions of corticosteroids.
Although research on this is limited to sporadical anecdotal information and case studies, steroids could worsen or intensify symptoms if you already live with a mental health condition, including bipolar disorder.
Because mania and depression are possible side effects of these drugs, it’s important to share your mental health diagnosis with a prescribing doctor.
It’s also important to let them know if you’re currently taking any other medications. They may want to monitor your dosage or recommend a different treatment to prevent physical and mental side effects.
If you experience mental health symptoms that disrupt your life and cause you distress, a health professional can help.