The Deep Connection Between Lupus and Osteoporosis
The irony of medication's side effects
Yet another possible factor is the medication that helps to manage inflammation. The research on corticosteroids and their effects on bone strength are not quite conclusive, but the results point in the direction of an association between the use of these drugs and the development of brittle bones. For instance, studies of the connection between prednisone and bone loss are not entirely conclusive, and the results from one set of findings contradict others. However, more recent research shows that prednisone only has adverse effects on bone tissue when taken in doses of 7.5 milligrams or higher.
As of now, another anti-inflammatory drug, hydroxychloroquine, has not been proven to directly promote the loss of bone mass. Further investigation is required for this drug and others that are primarily used to treat lupus.