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Jens Bollerslev, Steven T. Harris, Benjamin Z. Leder, Glucocorticoid-Induced Osteoporosis, The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, Volume 97, Issue 2, 1 February 2012, Page 35A, https://doi.org/10.1210/jcem.97.2.zeg35a
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What is glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis?
Glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis (GIO) is a condition in which people who take medicines called glucocorticoids develop osteoporosis—weakening of the bones. Osteoporosis increases the risk of broken bones (fractures).
Glucocorticoids are synthetic (manufactured) hormones also known as steroids. They include medicines such as prednisone, cortisone, hydrocortisone, and dexamethasone.
Common conditions treated with glucocorticoids include:
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Glucocorticoids can be taken as a pill (by mouth), an injection under the skin or in a vein, a nasal spray or inhaler, or even as a skin ointment or cream.
What causes GIO?
Normally, your body continuously removes old bone and replaces it with new bone. However, glucocorticoids can increase the breakdown of bone and decrease the formation of new bone. This can cause your bones to weaken. Weak bones can break easily when you have a minor fall (called a fragility fracture). Some people break bones for no reason at all. Bone fractures can be serious and painful. They can affect your ability to move, walk, and care for yourself.
