MrFacts

[mrfacts]

Can somebody highlight the entire causes and side effects of IV steroids

They cause osteoporosis, which is bone loss

So where does this bone loss go and where does if form

I know steroids settles inflammation

But long term, is the systemic impact on us better or worse

After two courses of IV steroids, is it normal to have walking difficulty because of bone loss in our peripheries.

As I 100% strongly believe this is caused by out bone loss through these steroids.

I know they save peoples lives

But i think its time to consider other treatments

Perhaps lower courses of steroids and immuno suppressants or other

What is the impact of steroids on our CVS and circulation system also

As this is not discussed

If somebody can direct me to a discusion of the impact of steroids on out CVS and circulation system, I would very much appreciate this

Thank you

[PMRpro]

They do not "cause osteoporosis" - they MAY lead to osteoporosis which is not the same thing. I have been on pred for 14 years, most of it at above 10mg. a lot of it 15mg. In the first 11 years my bone density deteriorated slightly but was still in the range at which nothing more than calcium and vit D supplementation was required, never bisohosphonates. I know two other ladies, mid 80s and 90 years old, one had PMR twice so several years of moderate dose pred and the other had GCA so high doses. Both have bone densities over 95% .

Other treatments ARE considered - however, you need one that works. In the case of GCA and PMR there is one proven biologic which still doesn't work 100% for everyone as biologics are very specific. There may be more than one mechanism causing the inflammation - so you would need 2 biologics - probably £30K per year and they still don't cure the disorder, just manage it. Pred is a universal antiinflammatory - it is cheap and it works reliably. Used properly it is a lifesaver - and in the case of GCA, prevents a lot of people going totally and irreversibly blind. Leaving the inflammation untreated, especially in vasculitis, can result in stroke and other vascular damage over time. It isn't a simple black or white question. If only it were.