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Adrenal Suppression

Glucocorticosteroid Replacement Guidelines#

History of systemic use of more than 7.5 mg/day of prednisone for more than 2 weeks.Presently using more than 7.5 mg/day of systemic prednisone.Glucocorticosteroid use on alternating days.
Minimally stressful proceduresIf within 2 weeks after cessation of glucocorticosteroid therapy: Give previous maintenance dose on morning of appointment.No supplementation of glucocorticosteroids needed.No supplementation of glucocorticosteroids needed. Provide dental care on same day patient is taking glucocorticosteroids.
Stressful proceduresIf within 2 weeks after cessation of glucocorticosteroid therapy: Give previous maintenance dose on morning of appointment.Double daily dose on day of procedure and give an additional single dose on first postoperative day if pain is anticipated.Double daily dose and provide dental care on same day patient is taking glucocorticoteroids.

Always monitor blood pressure during the procedure.

Always prevent any intra-operative pain.

Always provide postoperative analgesia.

Different organizations, such as UK Medicines Information Pharmacists, have put forth modifications to these recommendations.#


References/Websites#