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Question
17 Nov 2004
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Low Sodium/High Protein and Potassium diet with Dexamethasone
I've asked you why must I go on a low sodium, high protein and potassium diet with Dexamethasone. My condition is Type 2 Polyglandular AI failure and I've got Hypothyrodism, AI Heptatitis, Addison's, Vetiligo, Pernicious Anemia, etc. My doctor change the medication Cortogen to Dexamethasone and I must take as chronic medication. I put on a lot of weight since I stated with Dexamethasone and I asked my GP if I can quit the medication since I've gained so much weight and he reply "then you will die."
What danger is there is taking salt with this medication? And why a high potassium and increase in protein?
What danger is there is taking salt with this medication? And why a high potassium and increase in protein?
CyberDoc
Anya, here is a quick lesson on the physiology of dexamethasone. It causes sodium retention and potassium hydrogen loss due to its effect on the renal tubuli. It stimulates the liver to make glucose from amino acids and glycerol. Amino acids are of course the building blocks of proteins. The more potent the cortisone, the more marked these effects are. Let me know if you have more questions. Good luck.
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