% (n/N) of patients (n = 33)a | |
---|---|
Before receiving steroids | |
Potential side effects discussed | 71 (12/17) |
Had expectations of the side effects | 59 (10/17) |
Perceived advantages of taking steroids | |
It would be effective | 31 (5/16) |
Would have more energy | 25 (4/16) |
Would have less joint pain | 25 (4/16) |
Perceived disadvantages of taking steroids | |
Weight gain | 56 (9/16) |
Potential long-term side effects eg, kidney problems and bone loss | 38 (6/16) |
After receiving steroids: side effects | |
Expectations about side effects did not match experienceb | 50 (8/16) |
Most commonly reported side effects (reported by ≥10% of patients) | |
Weight gain | 67 (22/33) |
Swelling/moon face | 36 (12/33) |
Mood swings/feelings of rage | 21 (7/33) |
Difficulty sleeping | 12 (4/33) |
Most bothersome side effects | |
Weight gain | 64 (14/22) |
Sleeplessness | 14 (3/22) |
After receiving steroids: dosage | |
Have received a higher dose than they typically/currently take | 85 (22/26) |
Have received a lower dose than they typically/currently take | 38 (10/26) |
Stopped or changed dose without consulting physician | 30 (8/27) |
Satisfaction with steroid treatment | |
Overall satisfied with steroids | 75 (12/16) |
Would be happy if treatment regimen did not include steroids | 67 (12/18) |