Use of strong topical corticosteroids tied to osteoporosis, fracture risk

Reuters Health - 04/02/2021 - Use of potent or very potent topical corticosteroids (TCSs) is associated with increased risk of osteoporosis and major osteoporotic fractures, with a dose-dependent effect, according to a large cohort study by researchers in Denmark. "Based on these findings, clinicians may need to consider other corticosteroid-sparing therapeutic options for people requiring potent anti-inflammatory treatment on large body surfaces for prolonged periods to limit the risk of osteoporosis," they write in JAMA Dermatology. Still, although the population-attributable risk may be as high as 4.3%, "the absolute risk to the average TCS user was low," the team notes. "The take-home message is that, when used responsibly and in limited amounts, TCSs are generally safe. However, there is a proportion of patients with extensive or persistent disease activity who may require prolonged therapy," lead author Dr. Alexander Egeberg of the University of Copenha...

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Posted on 4 February, 20219 February, 2021