Appropriate Use and Complications of Corticosteroids in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Comprehensive Review

Corticosteroids are one of the most frequently prescribed medications for the management of inflammatory bowel disease. Although corticosteroids have a critical role for select cases for induction of remission, there is a notable risk of overuse and misuse of corticosteroids. This narrative review updates the evolving use of corticosteroids in the management of inflammatory bowel disease. The review focuses on the appropriate use, route of administration, and duration for the use of corticosteroids. Additionally, this review summarizes the side effects, use of steroids in special populations (eg, geriatrics, pregnancy, underrepresented minorities), and their use in the perioperative setting.