What are systemic corticosteroids used for and what are their long-term risks?

Systemic corticosteroids like prednisone, prednisolone, methylprednisolone, and dexamethasone are powerful anti-inflammatory drugs used for acute asthma exacerbations, severe allergic reactions, autoimmune diseases, and organ transplant rejection prevention. Short courses of 5 to 10 days are relatively safe. Long-term use causes serious adverse effects including osteoporosis, adrenal suppression, hyperglycemia, weight gain, cataracts, immunosuppression, mood changes, and Cushing syndrome features. ---