The Risks of Prolonged Steroid Use: A Last Resort Solution
Doctors and patients should explore alternatives to long-term steroid use for chronic conditions, as these medications pose significant dangers when used for extended periods. While steroids are low-cost and approved by insurance companies, they can cause a range of side effects including weight gain, mood changes, muscle weakness, skin thinning, and cataracts. Despite the availability of newer treatments with fewer side effects, steroids are still widely prescribed due to their affordability. Patients deserve more options, and insurers should streamline the approval process for covering alternative medications.
