Which of the following is a potential adverse consideration of systemic corticosteroids?

• A. Weight loss
• B. Adrenal suppression
• C. Improved bone density
• D. Decreased infection risk

Answer: (B)

Systemic corticosteroids can suppress the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. When these drugs are used for a prolonged period or at high doses, the body reduces its own cortisol production, leading to adrenal suppression. This is a key adverse consideration because stopping the medication abruptly can precipitate adrenal insufficiency, a potentially serious condition that requires careful tapering and monitoring.

This makes adrenal suppression the best answer. By contrast, weight loss is not typical (weight gain and fluid retention are common), improved bone density is the opposite of what occurs ( steroids can cause osteoporosis), and decreased infection risk is incorrect because these drugs actually raise infection risk due to immune suppression.