Corticosteroids — teaching
Never stop abruptly after prolonged use: the adrenal axis is suppressed and an adrenal crisis can follow with hypotension, weakness, vomiting and hypoglycemia. Taper as prescribed. Take in the morning with food, to match the natural cortisol rhythm and protect the stomach. Monitor: blood glucose, blood pressure, weight, signs of infection which may be masked, mood changes, and bone density over the long term. During an acute illness or surgery, the dose usually needs to be increased, not held.