ABSTRACT
Corticosteroids (CSs) are the most effective anti-inflammatory medication for the treatment of asthma. Systemic CS therapy is associated with significant adverse effects, including the promotion of osteoporosis. In contrast to systemic CS therapy, inhaled corticosteroids (ICSs) provide effective therapy of asthma with few adverse effects (1). The effects of inhaled corticosteroid therapy on bone metabolism are not certain but are a concern with the increasing use of moderate and high doses for longer periods of time. The relative risk of osteoporosis for different inhaled corticosteroid preparations and dosages has not been defined. Research is delineating the best procedures for diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of osteoporosis (2,3). The goals of this chapter are to review what is known about osteoporosis risk factors and to recommend methods of prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of osteoporosis for the asthma specialist.
