Steroid-induced osteoporosis
Steroid-induced osteoporosis (SIOP) is osteoporosis arising due to use of glucocorticoids - analogous to Cushing's syndrome and involving mainly the axial skeleton. The synthetic glucocorticoid prescription drug prednisone is a main candidate after prolonged intake. Some professional guidelines recommend prophylaxis 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.[1] Alternate day use may not prevent this complication.[2]
Mechanisms of SIOP include:[3]
References