Steroid eye drops and bone health

[Emye343]

Hi there,

I wonder whether anyone can give me advice on prednisolone eye drops and their possible effect on bones. I have rheumatoid arthritis and have just been prescribed steroid eye drops for an ra flare which is causing ulcers in my eye. I also have osteoporosis in my spine and hips and am concerned that the drops may make it worse. Any advice/experience would be gratefully received. Thanks!

[Mavary]

HiEmye. I shouldn’t think the very small amount of steroid would hurt. I’m on a steroid inhaler for my lungs and have been for years. I’ve also had multiple fractures. My bones were already weak from having a hysterectomy very young and having six steroid tablets a day after having the pneumonia and aspergillosis. it was a pretty hefty dose. Nowhere near what you would be putting in your eye. So don’t worry about it. You could always give either the Chemist or the Dr a ring to express your concerns. I’m sure they would put your mind at rest.

[Emye343 in reply to Mavary]

Thanks for replying Mavary. I may well ring the chemist.