If the pituitary gland is unable to make ACTH, then the adrenals will not release cortisol. It also releases larger amounts of cortisol during illness, injury and/or stress. The job of ACTH is to instruct the adrenal glands to release a hormone called cortisol, also known as the “stress hormone.” A healthy body releases small amounts of cortisol though out the day. When the pituitary gland is isn’t working properly, Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) deficiency often develops. This can happen when a brain tumor, traumatic brain injury or other disease damages the pituitary gland. Secondary Adrenal Insufficiency is a condition that results when the pituitary gland is not working properly. Never change your steroid replacement dose or stop taking your cortisol replacement without your doctor’s permission and supervision. Secondary adrenal insufficiency is a serious condition with life-threatening consequences. Only your physician can decide if making changes to your medication or dosage is safe and appropriate. If I suspect that a medication may be causing weight or appetite changes in a patient, then it is my job to bring my suspicions to the prescribing doctor’s attention. Part of my role as a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist is be knowledgable about which medications have nutrition-related side effects. You should never change your medication dosage without your doctor’s approval and supervision. I am not qualified to make any recommendations to patients regarding their medications or medication dosage.
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