What is a common complication associated with long-term use of corticosteroids?

Corticosteroids, when used over a prolonged period, are well-known to contribute to the development of osteoporosis. This occurs because these medications interfere with calcium absorption in the intestines and inhibit the function of osteoblasts, the cells responsible for bone formation. Additionally, corticosteroids can increase the rate of bone resorption, leading to a decrease in bone density over time. As a result, patients on long-term corticosteroid therapy are at a significantly higher risk for fractures and other complications associated with weakened bones.

While hypoglycemia and weight loss can be related to other medication effects or specific health conditions, they are not typical complications associated with long-term corticosteroid use. In fact, corticosteroids are more often linked to hyperglycemia and weight gain rather than weight loss. Fluid retention, although a concern, is more directly associated with the immediate effects of corticosteroids rather than a long-term complication like osteoporosis.