What is a common effect of corticosteroids in animals?

Corticosteroids are anti-inflammatory medications often used in veterinary medicine to treat various conditions. One common effect of corticosteroids in animals is the reduction of allergic symptoms. This occurs because corticosteroids work by suppressing the immune response and reducing inflammation, which are key components of allergic reactions. As a result, when an animal experiences allergies—such as skin irritations, itching, or respiratory issues—corticosteroids can effectively alleviate these symptoms, providing significant relief.

While corticosteroids can also lead to side effects, the key point here focuses on their primary therapeutic use in managing allergic conditions. In contrast, factors such as decreased energy levels or enhancement of physical activity are generally not associated with the therapeutic effects of corticosteroids, as their impact on physical activity can vary based on other underlying health conditions and is not the hallmark effect of the medication. Increased appetite is commonly seen as a side effect of corticosteroids rather than a method for addressing allergic symptoms.