Are Long-Term Low-Dose Steroids Safe In Early RA?

A recent clinical study published in British Medical Journal, Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases reported a good safety profile of Long-term Low-dose glucocorticoids (GC) in the management of Early rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The clinical study explored the 7-year tolerability profile of glucocorticoids for RA. It is a common trend to prescribe GCs in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), especially in the early stages of the disease. It is evident that GCs provide symptomatic and structural benefits in RA patients.

However, the risk/benefit ratio regarding the safety and tolerability of GCs remains controversial. Adverse events reported with the use of GCs are mainly time and dose-dependent, so international guidelines generally support the use of the lowest dose for the shortest duration. In this regard, a recent study was conducted to examine the 7-year tolerability and safety…