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Steroid card and adrenal suppression — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModerateEndocrine TherapeuticsSteroid card and adrenal suppressionGPhC CRA

A patient has taken prednisolone 10 mg daily for polymyalgia rheumatica for three months. She asks why the pharmacist mentions a steroid card. What would you advise the patient?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: BCarry a steroid card because prolonged systemic corticosteroids can suppress the adrenal axis

Prolonged systemic corticosteroid therapy can cause adrenal suppression, and a steroid card helps communicate risk during illness, procedures or emergency care. Abrupt stopping can precipitate adrenal insufficiency. Patients need counselling on dose adherence and infection precautions.

Reference: BNF; NICE CKS