Glucocorticoid use is an independent risk factor for developing sarcopenia in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: from the CHIKARA study.

RA patients using GCs at an average dose ≥ 3.25 mg/day over 1 year were at higher risk for developing sarcopenia. Reduction or withdrawal of GCs may prevent sarcopenia.Key Points• Patients with RA are at higher risk of sarcopenia.• Predictors or risk factors for developing sarcopenia over 1 year in RA patients were investigated using the prospective observational CHIKARA database.• RA patients using GCs at an average dose ≥ 3.25 mg/day over 1 year were at higher risk for developing sarcopenia.• Reduction or withdrawal of GCs may be essential to prevent sarcopenia.