Which of the following is a common side effect of long-term corticosteroid use?

Prepare for the Rosh Internal Medicine Boost End of Rotation (EOR) Exam with flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Each question offers hints and explanations to help you excel. Get exam-ready now!

Long-term corticosteroid use is associated with a variety of side effects due to the drug's impact on multiple body systems. Among these, osteoporosis is one of the most significant and common complications. Corticosteroids can decrease bone formation by inhibiting osteoblast activity and increasing bone resorption through stimulation of osteoclasts. This results in a net loss of bone density, making individuals more susceptible to fractures over time. Patients using corticosteroids for extended periods are generally advised to undergo regular screening for bone density and may be prescribed medications to help mitigate this risk.

Other effects of corticosteroids may include weight gain due to increased appetite and fat redistribution, hypertension from fluid retention, and various cardiovascular effects, but these are generally less specific than osteoporosis in terms of their direct correlation with long-term use. Bradycardia is not a typical side effect associated with corticosteroids. Therefore, osteoporosis stands out as a key concern for patients receiving long-term corticosteroid therapy.

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