Have you met Sam?—Your guide to Steroid Management and Education
Steroids Can Be Life-Changing Medications
Steroids can be life-changing medications, particularly for those managing conditions like IgG4-related disease (IgG4-RD). However, navigating the challenges and side effects of steroid treatment can often feel overwhelming for both patients and healthcare providers.
To address these challenges, a company named Steritas collaborated with Harvard scientists, patients, advocacy groups and practicing physicians to develop an innovative free resource called Sam (Steroids and Me). The IgG4ward! Foundation was pleased to share Sam with the community in November 2024, making it available in the Education and Resources section of our website. Sam provides clear educational materials, practical guidance and ongoing support, empowering patients and physicians to manage steroids effectively together.
Filling the Information Gap
Until now, detailed information about steroid side effects and tapering strategies was not easily accessible. Physicians often have limited time to fully discuss the many possible side-effects with their patients. There are simply too many! Sam fills this gap by providing easy to understand, reliable information, allowing users to navigate steroid therapy more confidently and talk with their doctors about tapers.
Why Sam Is Essential
This short video illustrates why Sam is essential for both patients embarking on a steroid treatment course and those who have been taking them for years:
What the IgG4ward! Community Says About Sam
Tracking my partner’s side effects with Sam was incredibly helpful. It showed us clearly how steroids were causing mood changes and weight gain. – Caregiver of someone with IgG4-RD
Before Sam, changing my steroid dosage caused anxiety. Now, I feel prepared and confident when it is time to change the dose. – Person living with IgG4-RD
My favorite part of Sam is its educational component. When I entered a side effect, it quickly provided relevant articles, making the process much easier.– Caregiver and advocate
Take the Next Step: Explore Sam Today
Please explore the resources available on Sam and share this tool widely with others who could benefit from it.
We can all begin to navigate the steroid journey with clarity and confidence.
