Effects of Cortisol on Carbohydrate, Lipid, and Protein Metabolism: Studies of Acute Cortisol Withdrawal in Adrenocortical Failure

Abstract

Cortisol withdrawal increased insulin sensitivity in terms of increased glucose oxidation and decreased endogenous glucose production; this may induce hypoglycemia in adrenocortical failure. Energy expenditure and urea loss decreased, indicating that weight and muscle loss in Addison's disease is caused by other mechanisms, such as decreased appetite. Increased muscle protein breakdown may amplify the loss of muscle protein.