Corticosteroids can be administered by various methods, depending on the condition being treated. Most conditions and diseases that involve chronic pain and inflammation use the oral or intravenous forms. The main methods of corticosteroid administration include:

• Oral methods (e.g., pills, liquids). Medication is swallowed and absorbed into the bloodstream, where it spreads throughout the body.
  
  
• Intravenous methods. Medication is injected under the skin through a needle and syringe. It enters the bloodstream and spreads throughout the body. It can also be given intramuscularly, where the medicine is deposited in the muscle to work longer than an intravenous injection. Corticosteroids may also be injected directly into an inflamed joint, such as during an acute attack of gout or rheumatoid arthritis.
  
  
• Topical creams. Medication is applied directly to the skin.
  
  
• Ointments/drops. Eyes are treated with ointment or drops. Ears are treated with drops.
  
  
• Paste. Medication is applied to the mouth and gums.
  
  
• Enemas/foams/suppositories. Medication is applied rectally.
  
  
• Inhaled methods (e.g., inhalers, nebulizers). Medication is breathed deep into the lungs and comes into contact with the mucous membranes of the lungs.
  
  
• Nasal sprays. Medication is inhaled into the nose and sinuses where it comes into contact with the walls of the sinuses. With this form of treatment, the medication does not reach the lungs.

The types of corticosteroids include:

There are also combination products, such as a corticosteroid with an antifungal or antibiotic.