Question

Why is it important to withdraw corticosteroid medication gradually?

1) To minimize the reaction of the body to the sudden loss of exogenous steroids
2) To prevent adrenal insufficiency
3) To avoid side effects of the medication
4) To reduce the risk of drug interactions

Answer 1

Gradually withdrawing corticosteroid medication is important to minimize reactions to sudden loss, prevent adrenal insufficiency, and avoid side effects.

Step-by-step explanation:

Gradually withdrawing corticosteroid medication is important for several reasons:

1. To minimize the reaction of the body to the sudden loss of exogenous steroids. Abruptly stopping the medication can lead to withdrawal symptoms, such as fatigue, muscle weakness, and joint pain.
2. To prevent adrenal insufficiency. Corticosteroid medications suppress the body's natural production of cortisol. Gradually tapering off the medication gives the adrenal glands time to resume normal cortisol production.
3. To avoid side effects of the medication. Prolonged use of corticosteroids can cause a variety of side effects, including thinning of the skin, weight gain, and increased risk of infections. Gradually reducing the dose can help minimize these side effects.