What medication should Cushing's patients receiving an adrenalectomy take?

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Patients with Cushing's syndrome who undergo an adrenalectomy often require corticosteroid replacement therapy post-surgery. This is necessary because the adrenal glands, which produce cortisol, are either removed or significantly impaired, leading to a state of adrenal insufficiency. The correct answer is a corticosteroid ending in "SONE" because these medications are used to mimic the natural cortisol that the body is unable to produce in sufficient quantities after the surgery.

Corticosteroids help in managing the body's stress response and maintaining essential metabolic functions that would otherwise be compromised due to the lack of adrenal hormone production. It is crucial for these patients to receive proper dosing of corticosteroids to prevent symptoms of adrenal insufficiency, such as fatigue, weakness, and hypotension.

In contrast, while diuretics may help manage fluid retention, they do not address the underlying hormonal deficiencies caused by the adrenalectomy. Antidepressants are not directly related to the management of Cushing’s symptoms post-surgery, and antihypertensives are only relevant if hypertension is present, which isn't a primary concern after an adrenalectomy related to Cushing's syndrome. Thus, the administration of corticosteroids is essential for ensuring the patient's homeostasis and recovery after the procedure.

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