What are the consequences of suddenly discontinuing long-term use of glucocorticoids?

Long-term use of glucocorticoids followed by sudden discontinuation can lead to serious consequences, including weakened immune system, poor stress tolerance, which can result in colds and infections. In severe cases, adrenal crisis may occur, causing a drop in blood pressure and blood sugar. Therefore, it is not advisable to discontinue the medication abruptly, and a gradual reduction of dosage should be pursued instead.

What happens when long-term glucocorticoids are suddenly discontinued?

1. Symptoms such as fatigue, poor appetite, and mental sluggishness may occur. In severe cases, adrenal crisis may occur.

2. The body's immune system and stress tolerance may be weakened, making it prone to colds, infections, and other diseases.

3. There may be a drop in blood pressure and blood sugar. If diabetic patients discontinue hormone use without promptly reducing the dosage of hypoglycemic drugs, severe hypoglycemia may occur.

4. Recurrence or aggravation of the original disease may require the re-administration of large doses of hormones. Therefore, hormone discontinuation should be gradual.

How to discontinue long-term glucocorticoid use?

For long-term hormone therapy, medication should be gradually discontinued by reducing the dosage by 10% every 10 days. It is best to administer the medication every other day during long-term treatment, and follow-up should be conducted to monitor weight, blood pressure, mental status, blood potassium, and glucose levels. In addition, vitamin D, calcium, and other supplements can be given to prevent osteoporosis during long-term treatment.