Primary Generalized Glucocorticoid Resistance Medication

Updated: Dec 21, 2021
  • Author: Nicolas Nicolaides, MD, PhD; Chief Editor: Robert P Hoffman, MD  more...
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Medication

Glucocorticoids, mineralocorticoid-sparing

Class Summary

This agent is the treatment of choice for managing glucocorticoid resistance. High-dose administration of dexamethasone activates the mutated and/or wild-type hGRα and suppresses the endogenous secretion of corticotropin, increasing mineralocorticoid and androgen production from the adrenal cortex.

Dexamethasone (Decadron)

Dexamethasone is a synthetic, fluorinated, long-acting glucocorticoid. Despite the high pharmacologic doses when used to treat generalized glucocorticoid resistance, patients do not typically manifest serious adverse effects or cushingoid features. Asymptomatic normotensive patients with primary glucocorticoid resistance do not require any treatment.