AANP Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Practice Exam 2025 – The All-in-One Resource to Ensure Exam Success!

Glucocorticoids, which are a class of corticosteroids, have several known side effects due to their potent effects on the body's metabolic processes and immune response. Emotional liability, which includes mood swings, increased anxiety, irritability, and even depression, is a recognized side effect of glucocorticoid therapy. This is primarily due to their impact on the central nervous system and changes in neurotransmitter levels.

In patients taking glucocorticoids, these emotional changes can vary in intensity and can significantly affect their quality of life. Understanding this side effect is crucial for healthcare providers to offer appropriate support and interventions for patients who might experience these emotional fluctuations.

Other options listed do have associations with different medications or conditions, but emotional liability specifically relates to the impact of glucocorticoids on mental health.