Prolonged use of Entocort EC can impact 3 essential nutrients. This medication is commonly used for Inflammation.
Corticosteroids can increase the urinary loss of selenium elevating the risk for deficient levels. Selenium is a mineral that acts as an antioxidant, helping protect cells from damage. Studies have shown that rheumatoid arthritis patients taking high doses of corticosteroids tend to have lower selenium levels. This is concerning because low selenium intake is linked to osteoporosis, and selenium has been shown to play a role in bone protection in animal models of corticosteroid-induced osteoporosis. Supplementation with selenium should be considered during long term corticosteroid therapy.
Replace with Selenium (as Se-Methyl L-Selenocysteine, L-selenomethionine (yeast free), sodium selenite) (150 mcg)
Research suggests corticosteroids can lower vitamin D levels in the body by increasing its breakdown. This is a concern because vitamin D plays a crucial role in bone health and the immune system, and corticosteroids themselves can weaken bones. A study found that calcium and vitamin D3 supplements helped prevent bone loss in the lower back (lumbar spine) and hip (trochanter) for people with rheumatoid arthritis who were on low-dose corticosteroids. Evidence suggests vitamin D may work synergistically together with corticosteroids to improve asthma treatment by boosting the effectiveness of corticosteroids or by overcoming resistance to these medications in some patients.
Replace with Vitamin D3 (Cholcalciferol) (1000 IU) (25 mcg)
Corticosteroids can lower calcium levels in the body. This is a double threat to bone health because corticosteroids themselves can weaken bones. Calcium is essential for strong bones, and a study showed that supplementing with both calcium and vitamin D3 helped prevent bone loss in people with rheumatoid arthritis taking corticosteroids. Supplementation with calcium should be considered during long term corticosteroid therapy.
Replace with Calcium Citrate (75 mg)