What is the main risk associated with abrupt cessation of steroid medication?

The main risk associated with the abrupt cessation of steroid medication is the development of Addison's disease, which is a condition characterized by insufficient production of cortisol, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands. When a person has been taking corticosteroids, their body may become reliant on the external source of these hormones, leading to suppression of the adrenal gland's natural ability to produce cortisol.

If the medication is stopped suddenly, the adrenal glands may not be able to respond quickly enough to meet the body’s needs for cortisol, resulting in adrenal insufficiency. This can manifest as symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, dizziness, and can progress to an adrenal crisis, which is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment.

In contrast, hypertension, Cushing's syndrome, and diabetes mellitus are not directly related risks of stopping steroid therapy abruptly. Hypertension can be a side effect of long-term steroid use, while Cushing's syndrome is a condition caused by excessive levels of cortisol in the body, often due to prolonged steroid use rather than cessation. Diabetes can also be a side effect of long-term steroid therapy due to altered glucose metabolism but is not specifically a risk when stopping steroids abruptly. Therefore, Addison's disease is the correct answer as it directly relates to the consequences of stopping