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Adrenocortical agents
Learning objectives
Upon completion of this chapter, you should be able to:
1.
Explain the control of the synthesis and secretion, and physiological effects of the adrenocortical agents.
2.
Describe the therapeutic actions, indications, pharmacokinetics, contraindications, most common adverse
reactions and important drug–drug interactions associated with the adrenocortical agents.
3.
Discuss the use of adrenocortical agents across the lifespan.
4.
Compare and contrast the prototype drugs prednisone and fludrocortisone with other adrenocortical agents.
5.
Outline the care considerations, including important teaching points, for people receiving an adrenocortical
agent.
Glossary of key terms
adrenal cortex:
outer layer of the adrenal gland; produces glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids in response to adrenocorticotropic
hormone (ACTH) stimulation; also responds to sympathetic stimulation
adrenal medulla:
inner layer of the adrenal gland; a sympathetic ganglion, it releases noradrenaline and adrenaline into circulation in
response to sympathetic stimulation
corticosteroids:
steroid hormones produced by the adrenal cortex; include androgens, glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids
diurnal rhythm:
response of the hypothalamus and then the pituitary and adrenals to wakefulness and sleeping; normally, the
hypothalamus begins secretion of corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) in the evening, peaking at about midnight; adrenocortical
peak response is between 6 and 9 a.m.; levels fall during the day until evening, when the low level is picked up by the hypothalamus
and CRF secretion begins again
glucocorticoids:
steroid hormones released from the adrenal cortex; they increase blood glucose levels, fat deposits and protein
breakdown for energy
mineralocorticoids:
steroid hormones released by the adrenal cortex; they cause sodium and water retention and potassium
excretion
Test your current knowledge of adrenocortical agents with a PrepU Practice Quiz!
ADRENOCORTICAL AGENTS
Glucocorticoids
beclomethasone
betamethasone
budesonide
cortisone
dexamethasone
hydrocortisone
methylprednisolone
prednisolone
prednisone
triamcinolone
Mineralocorticoids
cortisone
fludrocortisone
hydrocortisone
