Mineralcorticoid replacement (Fludrocortisone) is generally taken once daily.ĪDRENAL CRISIS - Adrenal crisis refers to overwhelming and life-threatening adrenal insufficiency. In pituitary and hypothalamic disease, only cortisol needs to be replaced.Ĭortisol replacement (hydrocortisone/ cortisone acetate) is generally at a higher dose in the morning and a lower dose in the evening, to mimic the body’s own cyclical release of cortisol. In Addison’s disease (primary adrenal insufficiency), both cortisol and mineralcorticoid needs to be replaced. Treatment aims at replacing hormone levels. Cortisol levels help to control the pituitary’s production of ACTH. ACTH stimulates the adrenal gland to produce cortisol. The pituitary gland responds by producing several hormones, one of which is ACTH (adrenocorticotropin hormone). The hypothalamus sends corticotropin releasing hormone (CRH) to the pituitary gland. Androgens made by the adrenal glands are not as important for normal sexual function.Ĭortisol levels are normally regulated by the hypothalamus and pituitary gland. In men, most androgens (eg, testosterone) are produced in the testes. In women, adrenal androgens promote the development of sex characteristics such as underarm and pubic hair. In women, androgens are produced in the adrenal glands and the ovaries. Androgens – testosterone, DHEA and DHEAS.The main of these is Aldosterone, which helps regulate sodium levels, potassium levels, body fluid balance and blood pressure Cortisol is a vital “stress hormone” which helps with the stress response of the body (maintaining Blood Pressure and circulation in times of physical stress), storing fat, fighting infection and regulating blood glucose levels The adrenal glands produce three types of hormones:

The adrenal glands are located on top of the kidneys.

Adrenal gland issues