A patient taking glucocorticoid therapy for chronic illness is experiencing weight gain. What statement is true regarding this symptom?

Weight gain is a common side effect of glucocorticoid therapy, particularly due to the medication's impact on metabolism, fluid retention, and appetite stimulation. The statement that changes in appearance will reverse once the therapy is tapered off is true. When glucocorticoids are reduced or stopped, many of the side effects, including weight gain and associated changes in appearance, can improve as the body readjusts to normal functioning without elevated glucocorticoid levels.

Patients often notice that their appetite may decrease and fluid retention subsides after tapering the medication, leading to weight loss and a return to their previous appearance. It is important to manage glucocorticoid therapy carefully, and although weight gain can be distressing, it is typically reversible upon discontinuation or dosage adjustment of the medication. This understanding is crucial for patients, as it offers hope for reversing unwanted side effects associated with corticosteroid use.