Monica Hamric, a 53-year-old woman, is referred to the endocrinologist for evaluation after being seen by the advanced practice nurse. She has a history of systemic lupus erythematosus, managed with...

Monica Hamric, a 53-year-old woman, is referred to the endocrinologist for evaluation after being seen by the advanced practice nurse. She has a history of systemic lupus erythematosus, managed with corticosteroids, and has begun to experience weight gain, facial hirsutism with thinning of the hair on her head, spontaneous bruising, muscle weakness, and a recent diagnosis of diabetes. She has been taking prednisone (Deltasone) for the past 3 months. The physical examination reveals that Mildred has developed a “buffalo hump” on her shoulder and red striae on her abdominal and underarm areas. Her BP is also elevated, measuring 162/100 mmHg. The health care provider has diagnosed Monica with Cushing’s syndrome related to her prednisone use. Monica will be withdrawn from the prednisone and started on immunosuppressant therapy. Because Monica has taken the prednisone for some time, how do you anticipate the drug will be stopped and why?