Weight-related dosing, timing and monitoring hydrocortisone replacement therapy in patients with adrenal insufficiency.

Objective: The objective of this study was to examine the variables determining hydrocortisone (HC) disposition in patients with adrenal insufficiency and to develop practical protocols for individualized prescribing and monitoring of HC treatment.

Design And Patients: Serum cortisol profiles were measured in 20 cortisol-insufficient patients (09.00 h cortisol < 50 nmol/l) given oral HC as either a fixed or 'body surface area-adjusted' dose in the fasted or fed state.