glucocorticoid axis effect
Last reviewed 01/2018
Endogenous glucocorticoids are involved in a negative feedback cycle to inhibit the secretion of CRF and ACTH.
If exogenous glucocorticoids are administered, CRF and ACTH production can be chronically down-regulated with consequent atrophy of the adrenal cortex. Consequently, if exogenous glucocorticoids are stopped suddenly, a hypoadrenal crisis can occur.