What is a common side effect of corticosteroids in the long term?

Corticosteroids, when used long-term, can lead to a range of side effects that affect various systems in the body. One of the most significant concerns is the increased risk of infections. This is primarily due to the immunosuppressive effects of corticosteroids, which can inhibit the normal function of the immune system.

Corticosteroids work by reducing inflammation and suppressing the immune response, which is beneficial in treating conditions like autoimmune diseases but can also make the body more susceptible to infections. With a weakened immune defense, the body's ability to fight off pathogens is compromised, leading to a higher likelihood of both common and opportunistic infections.

In comparison, options suggesting improved immune function, weight loss, or enhanced physical stamina do not align with the recognized pharmacological effects of long-term corticosteroid use. Instead, patients often experience weight gain due to changes in metabolism and appetite, reduced physical stamina due to muscle wasting and fatigue, and a generally diminished immune response, not an improvement. Thus, increased risk of infections is a well-documented and significant consequence of prolonged corticosteroid therapy.