As with most chronic diseases, adrenal insufficiency demands that the patients take responsibility and develop self-management skills and techniques. The following guidelines and general advice should help you in this endeavor. You should obtain and always wear a medical alert bracelet or tag and carry an emergency identification card. These items should identify your underlying diagnosis of the fact that you have adrenal insufficiency. The name and telephone number for both your primary physician and endocrinologist should be listed on the emergency medical identification card.
Adrenal insufficiency is treated with glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids.
Pituitary patients do not require mineralocorticoids. Glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid hormones are typically given in doses that approximate the normal daily production of these hormones. Three glucocorticoid hormones are commonly used in the treatment of patients with adrenal insufficiency. These include Hydrocortisone, Prednisone, and Dexamethasone. Your doctor will select one of these hormones and a dosing schedule that should provide for your glucocorticoid hormone needs.