HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

Could The Medication Korlym (mifepristone) Be Used Long Term To Reduce The Influence Of High Cortisol Due To Chronic Anxiety/stress?

Posted on Tue, 10 Sep 2024

Question: Could the medication Korlym (mifepristone) be used long term to reduce the influence of high cortisol due to chronic anxiety/stress?

Thanks.

Answered by Dr. Shailja Puri (30 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Long term mifepristone should be taken under medical guidance

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Long term use of mifepristone can lead to suppression of adrenal gland.
Thus, the drug should be taken under medical guidance.

Thanks and take care
Dr Shailja Puri

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T

Follow up: Dr. Shailja Puri (30 hours later)

Do you mean permanent suppression of adrenal gland function? From what I know, mifepristone blocks the binding of cortisol to its receptor. It does not decrease cortisol production but reduces the effects of excess cortisol. Please explain what you mean in more detail.
Thanks.

Answered by Dr. Shailja Puri (19 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Mifepristone should be prescribed by treating doctor with regular follow up

Detailed Answer:
Hello and welcome again,
Mifepristone if taken for short duration or intemittently helps to suppress cortisol, however, if taken for long duration without medical supervision can lead to harmful effects.
In simple words, mifepristone should be prescribed by your treating doctor for a period of time followed by regular review and relevant investigations - cortisol level and adrenal hormone profile.
This will help to identify any deleterious effect if any at the earliest.

Thanks and take care
Dr Shailja Puri

Note: For more information on hormonal imbalance symptoms or unmanaged diabetes with other comorbid conditions, get back to us & Consult with an Endocrinologist. Click here to book an appointment.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Kampana