[Steroid-induced myopathy]

Physiological effects of glucocorticoids include the inhibition of protein synthesis and the increase in catabolic processes in muscles. Consequently, a long-term intake of steroids in high doses causes myopathy. Myopathic effects of glucocorticoids are observed during systemic as well as inhallatory use. Most frequently, steroid myopathy manifests as the weakness and hypotrophy of lower limbs muscles, weakness of respiratory muscles, dysphonia. Prevention and treatment of steroid myopathy include limitation of indications for long-term usage of glucocorticoids, alternating regimens of treatment, adequate physical activity. The current data demonstrate the efficacy of vitamin D and amino acids mixtures in the prevention and treatment of steroid myopathy.