What are potential side effects of long-term glucocorticoid therapy in dogs?

What are potential side effects of long-term glucocorticoid therapy in dogs?

• A. PU/PD
• B. PU/PD, increased appetite/weight gain, panting, potential GI ulcers, immunosuppression
• C. Hair loss only
• D. No side effects

Answer: (B)

Long-term glucocorticoid therapy in dogs has widespread effects because these drugs influence metabolism, immune function, and the protective lining of the stomach. You commonly see increased thirst and urination, plus a rise in appetite with weight gain, as steroids alter energy balance and central appetite signals. Some dogs may pant more, which can be part of the broader metabolic or stress-related response to prolonged steroid exposure. The gastric mucosa becomes more vulnerable, increasing the risk of GI ulcers with chronic use. Immunosuppression is another key issue, lowering the ability to fight infections and potentially slowing wound healing. A choice that lists these multiple effects best reflects what can happen with long-term therapy; options that include only one symptom or claim no side effects don’t capture the full picture.

Long-term glucocorticoid therapy in dogs has widespread effects because these drugs influence metabolism, immune function, and the protective lining of the stomach. You commonly see increased thirst and urination, plus a rise in appetite with weight gain, as steroids alter energy balance and central appetite signals. Some dogs may pant more, which can be part of the broader metabolic or stress-related response to prolonged steroid exposure. The gastric mucosa becomes more vulnerable, increasing the risk of GI ulcers with chronic use. Immunosuppression is another key issue, lowering the ability to fight infections and potentially slowing wound healing. A choice that lists these multiple effects best reflects what can happen with long-term therapy; options that include only one symptom or claim no side effects don’t capture the full picture.