What is a potential side effect of taking corticosteroids long-term?

Taking corticosteroids for an extended period can lead to several side effects, one of the most significant being osteoporosis. Corticosteroids are known to interfere with the body's ability to absorb calcium and can decrease bone density over time. This results from the hormones' effects on bone metabolism, which includes inhibiting osteoblast activity (the cells responsible for bone formation) and promoting bone resorption (the breakdown of bone). Consequently, long-term use increases the risk of fractures and osteoporosis, making it paramount for healthcare providers to monitor bone health in patients on prolonged corticosteroid therapy.

Other options, while they might be side effects of corticosteroids, do not carry the same level of long-term risk for serious conditions such as bone health degradation seen with osteoporosis. For instance, hypoglycemia is less commonly associated with corticosteroid use; in fact, these medications usually elevate blood sugar levels. Hypotension is also atypical, as corticosteroids generally increase blood pressure and are even used to manage certain cases of low blood pressure. Insomnia can occur with corticosteroid therapy, particularly if taken later in the day, but this is typically more of an acute issue rather than a chronic condition like osteoporosis. Overall, the impact of long-term corticosteroid use on bone density makes