Pharmacy Technician Certification Board Practice Exam

What is an adverse effect of long-term corticosteroid therapy?

1. Lowered cholesterol levels

2. Weight loss

3. Increased risk of infection

4. Improved immune response

The correct answer is: Increased risk of infection

Long-term corticosteroid therapy can significantly suppress the immune system, leading to an increased risk of infection. Corticosteroids, while effective in treating various inflammatory and autoimmune conditions, can alter the body's normal immune response. This immunosuppressive effect is particularly concerning in patients who are on high doses or prolonged treatment, as their ability to fight off infections—both bacterial and viral—can be severely diminished. As a result, these patients may become more susceptible to infections that would normally be managed by a healthy immune system. In contrast, the other options do not reflect the typical effects of long-term corticosteroid use. For instance, corticosteroids often cause weight gain instead of weight loss and can lead to elevated cholesterol levels rather than lowered levels. They also do not improve immune response; instead, they can contribute to weakened immunity, which is precisely why increased infection risk is a critical consideration in the management of patients on corticosteroid therapy.