What is the recommended action when discontinuing cortisone therapy?

When discontinuing cortisone therapy, the recommended action is to gradually taper off the dosage. This approach is important because cortisone, as a corticosteroid, can affect the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. Long-term use of corticosteroids can suppress the natural production of cortisol by the adrenal glands. If cortisone is stopped abruptly, it can lead to adrenal insufficiency, a condition where the body cannot produce enough cortisol, which can result in serious complications such as fatigue, weakness, nausea, and potentially life-threatening crisis.

Gradually reducing the dosage allows the adrenal glands time to resume their normal function and produce cortisol adequately. It helps the body adjust to the change and minimizes the risk of withdrawal symptoms or complications associated with sudden cessation.

Continuing the same dosage indefinitely would not address the underlying need to discontinue therapy and could maintain the risk of side effects associated with prolonged corticosteroid use. Switching to another steroid immediately does not provide a safe alternative and can also complicate the patient’s overall treatment plan. Thus, tapering off the dosage is the safest and most effective method when discontinuing cortisone therapy.