Which type of medication may cause cushingoid features as a side effect?

• A. Antihistamines
• B. Corticosteroids
• C. Diuretics
• D. Antidepressants

Answer: (B)

Corticosteroids are known to produce cushingoid features as a side effect due to their influence on the body's metabolism and hormonal balance. When administered, corticosteroids can mimic the effects of cortisol, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands. This can lead to symptoms associated with Cushing's syndrome, such as weight gain, moon facies, increased abdominal fat, and thinning of the skin.

The mechanism behind these changes is associated with the way corticosteroids alter glucose metabolism, fat distribution, and protein synthesis and breakdown. These alterations can create a picture similar to that of endogenous Cushing's syndrome, which occurs due to excessive cortisol production within the body.

In contrast, antihistamines are primarily involved in blocking histamine receptors to alleviate allergy symptoms, and they do not influence cortisol levels or fat distribution in a way that would cause cushingoid features. Diuretics primarily affect fluid and electrolyte balance, helping to reduce blood pressure or alleviate edema, without directly causing the hormonal changes seen with corticosteroids. Antidepressants have varying mechanisms of action but are not typically associated with changes in physical appearance that resemble Cushing's syndrome. Thus, corticosteroids are the clear choice as the medication that can produce these side effects.