What is a common side effect of corticosteroids?

Weight gain is a common side effect of corticosteroids due to several factors. Corticosteroids can lead to increased appetite, causing individuals to consume more calories than they normally would. Additionally, these medications can promote fluid retention, leading to weight gain in the form of water retention. Corticosteroids can also affect how the body metabolizes fats and carbohydrates, which can contribute to increased fat deposition, particularly in areas such as the face, abdomen, and back of the neck, often referred to as "moon facies" or "buffalo hump."

Unlike the other options, which represent uncommon or less direct effects of corticosteroids on appetite and metabolism, weight gain is one of the most frequently reported side effects in patients taking these medications.