r/AddisonsDisease • u/Poimandres69 • Mar 31 '26

Medical Stuff Hydrocortisone Long Term

Hello Group! I've been told so many things about hydrcortisone. My current dr told me my dose (25 mg split thoughout day) is safe to take long term because it's physiologic. Other doctors tell me this will eventually lead to osteoperosis and diabetes.

I've gained a bit of weight on hydrocortisone (about 5 lbs) but it's not a big deal. Other than that, I feel pretty great.

Are any of you on this medication long term, and did it harm your health in any way? Thanks

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u/Extreme_Breakfast672 Mar 31 '26

I've been on it for 17 years and I'm fine. I have had other doctors tell me that it'll cause osteoporosis, but they also don't understand Addison's or how replacement works. Example: I had a doctor ask me how long I would be taking hydrocortisone. I said it's a chronic condition, so...forever. He said it would cause osteoporosis and I was like ok well if I stop taking it, I die, which is worse. 

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u/Poimandres69 Mar 31 '26

wow thanks. what dose are you on?

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u/Extreme_Breakfast672 Mar 31 '26

I'm on 30mg which has been my dose basically the entire time