Question

why is it important to taper glucocorticoids rather than abruptly discontinuing them?

to minimize the risk of developing diabetes

to enhance the effectiveness of the medication

to prevent adrenal insufficiency

to avoid an immediate increase in blood pressure

Explanation:

Long-term glucocorticoid use suppresses the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, reducing natural cortisol production. Tapering allows the HPA axis to gradually recover function, preventing acute adrenal insufficiency (a life-threatening condition from sudden cortisol deficiency) that can occur with abrupt discontinuation. Other options are incorrect: diabetes risk is a side effect of use (not tapering), tapering does not enhance effectiveness, and abrupt stop does not cause immediate BP increase.

Answer:

To prevent adrenal insufficiency