Steroid-Induced Osteoporosis

Topic Overview

Many people take oral or inhaled steroids, which include beclomethasone, flunisolide, and prednisone, for conditions such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Oral steroids and high-dose inhaled steroids can cause bone loss over time. If you are on these types of medicines for 6 months or longer, you are at increased risk for osteoporosis, which puts you at high risk for broken bones. After broken bones occur, healing can take a long time because of the decreased ability of your bones to rebuild due to osteoporosis.

If you are on long-term use of steroids, you should be monitored for bone loss.

Related Information

Credits

ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical ReviewerKathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical ReviewerCarla J. Herman, MD, MPH - Geriatric Medicine
Last RevisedNovember 6, 2012
By: Healthwise StaffLast Revised: November 6, 2012
Medical Review: Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Carla J. Herman, MD, MPH - Geriatric Medicine

© 1995-, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.



Topic Contents

    Healthwise. For every health decision