Long-term use of which type of medication can be a risk factor for osteoporosis?

Long-term use of steroids is a well-documented risk factor for osteoporosis due to their impact on bone metabolism. Steroids, particularly glucocorticoids, can inhibit the formation of new bone by affecting the activity of osteoblasts, the cells responsible for building bone. They also lead to an increase in bone resorption, or the process by which bone is broken down, typically mediated by osteoclasts.

This dual effect results in decreased bone density over time, making bones weaker and more susceptible to fractures. Therefore, individuals on long-term steroid therapy need careful monitoring of their bone health and may require preventative strategies, such as calcium and vitamin D supplementation or bisphosphonates, to help mitigate the risk of osteoporosis.

Antibiotics, antidepressants, and statins have differing mechanisms of action and side effects and are not typically associated with a significant increase in the risk for developing osteoporosis to the same extent as steroids.