Final answer:
Suppression of cortisol production may cause adrenal insufficiency or Addison's disease, leading to symptoms like fatigue, low blood pressure, and salt cravings. Diagnosis usually requires blood and imaging tests, with cortisol replacement therapy as the main treatment. Conversely, Cushing's syndrome results from an overproduction of cortisol and requires treatments to reduce cortisol levels.
Step-by-step explanation:
Drugs that suppress cortisol production can lead to adrenal insufficiency, more commonly known as Addison's disease. This condition originates from insufficient production of cortisol by the adrenal glands due to malfunction or a decrease in adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) from the pituitary gland. Symptoms include low blood pressure, fatigue, slow movements, lightheadedness, and cravings for salt, attributed to sodium loss and increased blood potassium levels (hyperkalemia).
Patients may also experience appetite loss, chronic diarrhea, vomiting, mouth lesions, and uneven skin coloration. Diagnosing Addison's disease typically involves blood tests and imaging of the adrenal and pituitary glands. The cornerstone of treatment is cortisol replacement therapy, generally a lifelong necessity.
Another aspect to consider is the role of cortisol in downregulating the immune system and reducing inflammation. Medications like cortisone injections, prednisone tablets, and hydrocortisone creams exploit this effect. However, prolonged cortisol release, as in chronic stress, can suppress the immune system and has been linked with depression.
In cases of overproduction of cortisol, such as in Cushing's syndrome, symptoms and treatment vary. High blood glucose levels, obesity, and slowed growth are common, and treatment focuses on reducing excessive cortisol levels, potentially through surgery, radiation therapy, or medication.