basic measures that should be performed routinely for patients receiving GCs to reduce the chance of an adverse reaction
- • Prescribe corticosteroids at the lowest possible dose and taper the dose as soon as the disease activity permits.
- • Encourage physical activities and avoid immobilization (helps prevent myopathy).
- • Implement fall prevention program.
- • Prescribe dietary and supplemental calcium to achieve intake of 1000 to 1500 mg/day.
- • Supply vitamin D at a minimum of 1000 IU/day.
- • Consider bisphosphonate therapy implementation (if >7.5 mg/day for >3 months) particularly if postmenopausal (see Chapter 52 : Metabolic Bone Disease).
- • Document patient education concerning the adverse effects of therapy, particularly risk of osteonecrosis.
