Hydrocortisone (cortisol, CortefTM) is a prescription drug. It is, however, the identical hormone to one of the naturally occurring compounds secreted by the adrenal gland cortex (outside layer) in response to stress or low blood sugar. The correct and safe use of low dose cortisol requires a doctor familiar with its administration.
By the use of oral hydrocortisone it is possible to determine if adrenal fatigue is a problem and treat it as well. This is called a therapeutic trial.This means that conventional hormone testing may not be needed when conducting a therapeutic trial, though additional information may be gained by such testing. No more than 20mg per day should be used in such a trial and the timing of a single or divided doses is important.
The best published source of information is the book, The Safe Uses of Cortisol by William McJeffries, MD. This paper-back book is more expensive than expected, and harder than average to find. If you cannot find a doctor to work with you, it would be better to buy the book rather than give up on the idea of a hydrocortisone trial if it is strongly indicated.
Hydrocortisone / Trial can help with the following
Ulcerative Colitis
Ulcerative colitis is both an autoimmune disorder and sensitive to stress. Using hydrocortisol to reduce inflammation followed by physiologic replacement doses when indicated is a reasonable supportive therapeutic strategy.
Key
| May do some good |
| Highly recommended |
Glossary
Hormones
Chemical substances secreted by a variety of body organs that are carried by the bloodstream and usually influence cells some distance from the source of production. Hormones signal certain enzymes to perform their functions and, in this way, regulate such body functions as blood sugar levels, insulin levels, the menstrual cycle, and growth. These can be prescription, over-the-counter, synthetic or natural agents. Examples include adrenal hormones such as corticosteroids and aldosterone; glucagon, growth hormone, insulin, testosterone, estrogens, progestins, progesterone, DHEA, melatonin, and thyroid hormones such as thyroxine and calcitonin.
Milligram
(mg): 1/1,000 of a gram by weight.