Endocrine Abstracts

Despite optimal replacement therapy with corticosteroids, patients with adrenal insufficiency continue to experience reduced quality of life and face elevated risks of mortality and morbidity. A significant challenge lies in our inability to replicate the precise, dynamic secretion patterns of cortisol and aldosterone, coupled with the absence of reliable biomarkers to ensure adequate corticosteroid dosing. Conventional hydrocortisone formulations possess short half-lives (approximately 90 minutes), necessitating multiple daily doses. Recently, extended-release hydrocortisone (ER-HC) formulations have been developed, allowing for once or twice daily administration, which are more user-friendly and have demonstrated beneficial effects. Emerging evidence suggests that subcutaneous administration of hydrocortisone via a pump may offer additional advantages. These recent advancements will be presented and discussed.