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Glucocorticoid Induced Suppression

Meaning

Glucocorticoid Induced Suppression is the phenomenon where the administration or excessive endogenous production of glucocorticoids, such as cortisol, inhibits the function of other endocrine axes. This suppression typically involves a negative feedback loop, acting on the hypothalamus and pituitary gland to decrease the release of regulatory hormones like CRH, ACTH, or even gonadotropins. Clinically, prolonged therapeutic use of exogenous glucocorticoids can lead to adrenal atrophy and secondary hypogonadism due to the powerful inhibitory effect on the HPA and HPG axes. Careful clinical monitoring is essential to mitigate this systemic suppression and preserve endogenous hormone production.