Steroid-induced osteoporosis is osteoporosis arising from the use of glucocorticoids (a class of steroid hormones) analogous to Cushing's syndrome but involving mainly the axial skeleton. The synthetic glucocorticoid prescription drug prednisone is a main candidate after prolonged intake. Bisphosphonates are beneficial in reducing the risk of vertebral fractures.[1] Some professional guidelines recommend prophylactic calcium and vitamin D supplementation in patients who take the equivalent of more than 30 mg hydrocortisone (7.5 mg of prednisolone), especially when this is in excess of three months.[2][3][4] The use of thiazide diuretics, and gonadal hormone replacement has also been recommended, with the use of calcitonin, bisphosphonates, sodium fluoride or anabolic steroids also suggested in refractory cases.[5] Alternate day use may not prevent this complication.[6]
It is also known as glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis.[7]
^Lukert BP, Raisz LG (March 1990). "Glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis: pathogenesis and management". Annals of Internal Medicine. 112 (5): 352–64. doi:10.7326/0003-4819-112-5-352. PMID2407167.
^Gourlay M, Franceschini N, Sheyn Y (February 2007). "Prevention and treatment strategies for glucocorticoid-induced osteoporotic fractures". Clinical Rheumatology. 26 (2): 144–53. doi:10.1007/s10067-006-0315-1. PMID16670825. S2CID26017061.