Secondary Adrenal Insufficiency
Answers to common questions about secondary adrenal insufficiency.
Questions on this page
What is secondary adrenal insufficiency?
Secondary adrenal insufficiency occurs when the pituitary does not produce enough ACTH to stimulate the adrenal glands.
What can cause secondary adrenal insufficiency?
Possible causes include:
- Pituitary disorders
- Pituitary surgery
- Pituitary radiation
- Certain medications
- Long-term glucocorticoid therapy followed by inappropriate withdrawal
Can steroid medicines cause adrenal suppression?
Yes.
Long-term treatment with medicines such as prednisolone, dexamethasone or other glucocorticoids can suppress the body's own cortisol production.
Can I suddenly stop steroids?
Not always.
After prolonged glucocorticoid therapy, sudden withdrawal can potentially result in adrenal insufficiency. Steroids should be reduced according to an appropriate medical plan when tapering is required.