Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

What is a common side effect of long-term corticosteroid use?

1. Increased pain sensitivity

2. Osteoporosis

3. Hypoglycemia

4. Low blood pressure

The correct answer is: Osteoporosis

Long-term corticosteroid use is associated with several metabolic and bone-related side effects, one of the most significant being osteoporosis. Corticosteroids can inhibit the formation of new bone and can lead to a decrease in bone density over time. This happens due to several mechanisms, such as reducing calcium absorption in the intestines, increasing renal excretion of calcium, and inhibiting the proliferation of osteoblasts, which are responsible for building new bone. As a result, individuals on long-term corticosteroid therapy are at increased risk for fractures and other complications related to weakened bones. While the other options listed could be side effects of various conditions or medications, they are not commonly associated with prolonged corticosteroid use. Increased pain sensitivity is more linked to chronic pain syndromes rather than corticosteroids. Hypoglycemia is typically not a direct side effect of corticosteroids; in fact, corticosteroids more commonly lead to elevated blood glucose levels. Low blood pressure is not a typical concern in the context of corticosteroid use, as these medications can actually lead to hypertension. Thus, osteoporosis stands out as a well-documented consequence of extended use of corticosteroids.