In patients receiving glucocorticoid therapy, which effect would be expected?

In patients undergoing glucocorticoid therapy, one primary effect is the inhibition of protein formation. Glucocorticoids, such as prednisone, exert their effects by influencing metabolism, particularly by promoting catabolic processes. This leads to the breakdown of proteins in muscle tissue and other bodily systems, which can decrease muscle mass over time.

Additionally, glucocorticoids stimulate gluconeogenesis, which increases glucose availability, contrary to the idea of decreased glucose availability. They also promote lipolysis but can cause fat redistribution in the body, which includes increased fat deposition in certain areas rather than a reduction in fat overall. Therefore, the expected effect of glucocorticoids on protein formation aligns with the notion of inhibited protein synthesis, making this the correct choice for the effects seen in patients receiving such treatment.