What dose of corticosteroids is considered especially harmful when taken for an extended period?

The dose of corticosteroids that is considered especially harmful when taken for an extended period is recognized as 30mg/day for longer than 30 days. This threshold is significant because prolonged exposure to corticosteroids at this level can lead to a variety of adverse effects, including increased risk of osteoporosis, hypertension, diabetes, and adrenal suppression.

At 30mg/day, patients may begin to experience significant side effects that can compromise their overall health. It is also a dosage that can trigger the onset of Cushingoid features, which include facial puffiness, weight gain, and other metabolic derangements. Careful consideration should be given to both the duration and dosage of corticosteroid therapy due to these potential risks, making it critical to monitor patients who might be prescribed this level of treatment.

While other dosages above 30mg/day, such as 40mg or 50mg, are certainly harmful, the pivotal point often cited in clinical guidelines is the 30mg/day threshold for an extended duration as a standard reference for when heightened caution is required. This evaluation helps healthcare professionals balance the benefits of treatment against the risks associated with prolonged corticosteroid use.