Category Archives: Doctor’s Answers

Tapering Off Prednisone

Doctor's Answers | Oct 11, 2013 | Medication Induced Cushing's

Question: I was on prednisone for 2 months due to breathing difficulties and developed Cushing’s symptoms during treatment. I then tried to taper off unsuccessfully and am now on hydrocortisone. Can profound HPA axis suppression or permanent damage be caused in such a short period of time? Answer: Administration of high doses of prednisone or… Continue Reading

Steroid Inhalers, Sprays and Cushing’s

Doctor's Answers | Oct 11, 2013 | Medication Induced Cushing's

Question: Can a person get Cushing’s from using steroid nasal sprays and inhalers? Do any of these interfere with cortisol testing for Cushing’s? Answer: Cushing’s syndrome results from the effects of too much cortisol action. Cortisol action can be produced by a variety of steroids termed glucocorticoids. What is important is the levels of cortisol… Continue Reading

Managing Side Effects of Steroid Medication

Doctor's Answers | Oct 11, 2013 | Medication Induced Cushing's

Question: I am taking steroids to control another medical condition. Will taking the entire dose in the morning help minimize the side effects? Is there anything I can do to minimize the side effects? Answer: If a steroid is given for a condition other than replacement for adrenal insufficiency, the dose is usually higher –… Continue Reading

Cushing’s Symptoms After Steroid Injections

Doctor's Answers | Oct 11, 2013 | Medication Induced Cushing's

Question: I had a series of steroid injections in my back. It’s been 3 months since the last injection and I’m getting more and more Cushing’s symptoms. Is there any treatment for injection induced Cushing’s? How long can I expect this to go on? Do I need to worry about becoming adrenal insufficient? Answer: Steroid… Continue Reading

Steroid Replacement Doses for Hypopituitary Patients

Doctor's Answers | Oct 11, 2013 | Hypopituitarism

Question: I am completely hypopituitary and had a bilateral adrenalectomy to control my Cushing’s. I now have Nelson’s Syndrome and am on 30mg/day of hydrocortisone replacement. I still have uncontrollable diabetes, muscle weakness and look and feel like I still have Cushing’s. Is this normal for Nelsons or could my replacement dose be too high?… Continue Reading