Smith DJF, et al. - This study is performed to expand the evidence base for the utilization of hydrocortisone and prednisolone agents as replacement therapy. The outcome of this study suggests that the prednisolone once daily is more convenient than hydrocortisone thrice daily, and no difference is found in the markers of cardiovascular risk measured. Because prednisolone mimics the circadian rhythm better than other glucocorticoids, it ought to be considered as an option to hydrocortisone for adrenal insufficiency.

Methods

• This study was conducted at Imperial College Healthcare Trust.
• For this study, they analyzed data from 82 patients on hydrocortisone and 64 patients on prednisolone for adrenal insufficiency.

Results

• No significant difference was seen in total cholesterol, LDL levels or any other risk factors between hydrocortisone and prednisolone patients.
• In this study, they observed that the prednisolone was subjectively significantly more convenient than hydrocortisone (p=0.048).