Nationwide prevalence of glucocorticoid prescriptions over 17 years and osteoporosis prevention among long-term users.

ABSTRACT:

Objectives

Glucocorticoid steroids are frequently prescribed, and side effects are well-known, such as glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis. Our aim was to estimate the nationwide trend in the prevalence of glucocorticoid steroid prescriptions over 17 years and to elucidate the proportion of patients on long-term glucocorticoid steroid therapy who receive active bone protective therapy. As well as to examine which medical specialties prescribe glucocorticoid steroids the most.

Methods

This study was a retrospective observational registry study extended over 17 years (2003-2020). Data were retrieved from the Icelandic Prescription Medicine Register on all delivered glucocorticoid steroids (Anatomic therapeutic chemical code: H02AB) for oral use. Long-term users were defined as

SUBMITTER: Bjornsdottir HH 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10956150 | biostudies-literature | 2024

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature