Corticosteroids, such as prednisone, may help children with severe juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA). These drugs can help stop serious symptoms such as inflammation of the lining around the heart (a.k.a. pericarditis). Doctors can give children these medicines for JRA directly into the vein, into joints, or by mouth. Steroids can hamper a child's normal growth and can cause other side effects, such as a round face, weight gain, weakened bones, and a greater chance of infection.