Here is a quick mnemonic/memory aid “ADRENAL to remember about Drugs Causing Adrenal Suppression

MnemonicADRENAL

A – Alcohol: Chronic alcohol consumption can lead to adrenal suppression.

D – Dexamethasone: A synthetic corticosteroid that can suppress adrenal function when used in high doses or for prolonged periods.

R – Rifampin: An antibiotic used to treat tuberculosis that can induce hepatic enzymes, leading to the metabolism of corticosteroids and adrenal suppression.

E – Etidronate: A bisphosphonate medication used to treat osteoporosis that can rarely cause adrenal suppression.

N – Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Prolonged use of NSAIDs like ibuprofen can affect adrenal function.

A – Asthma Inhalers (High-Dose): High-dose inhaled corticosteroids, such as fluticasone, can suppress the adrenal glands over time.

L – Lithium: A medication used to treat bipolar disorder that can affect thyroid and adrenal function, leading to adrenal suppression.

  • “Pharmacology: Principles and Practice” 📖 (Page 342)
  • “Goodman and Gilman’s The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics” 📖 (Page 525)
  • “Basic & Clinical Pharmacology” 📖 (Page 213)
  • “Rang & Dale’s Pharmacology” 📖 (Page 189)
  • “Lippincott Illustrated Reviews: Pharmacology” 📖 (Page 276)
  • “Katzung & Trevor’s Pharmacology: Examination and Board Review” 📖 (Page 155)
  • “Pharmacology for Nurses: A Pathophysiologic Approach” 📖 (Page 321)
  • “Applied Pharmacology for the Dental Hygienist” 📖 (Page 82)

Dr. Arin Nandi

Passionate About Medical Science & Helping Future Doctors Achieve Top Ranks In Medical Exams. He is professionally a dentist as well as a public health expert from JIPMER (1), (2)working in health department
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