Corticosteroids, such as prednisone, may help children with severe JIA. These drugs can help stop serious symptoms such as inflammation of the lining around the heart (called pericarditis). Doctors can give children these medicines 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 rounded face, weight gain, weakened bones, and a greater chance of infection.