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Adrenal Cortex

Also known as: Adrenal cortex extract, Adrenal gland extract, Adrenal support supplement, Adrenal Cortex Extract

Overview

Adrenal cortex extracts are derived from the adrenal glands of animals, typically bovine or porcine sources. These extracts contain a mixture of steroid hormones, including glucocorticoids (e.g., cortisol, cortisone) and androgens (e.g., dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, DHEA-S). Marketed for enhancing energy, improving adrenal function, and supporting overall health, particularly in cases of perceived adrenal fatigue or insufficiency, the research on adrenal cortex extracts is limited, with few high-quality studies specifically examining their efficacy and safety. The evidence is generally of low to moderate quality due to the lack of rigorous clinical trials and the variability in the composition of these supplements. These extracts can contain a variety of steroid hormones, including cortisol, cortisone, DHEA, and other androgens. Due to the presence of these hormones, use should be approached with caution and under medical supervision.

Benefits

There is limited evidence to support the primary benefits claimed for adrenal cortex extracts. A systematic review and meta-analysis on DHEA, a component of adrenal cortex extracts, found that DHEA may improve quality of life in women with adrenal insufficiency, but the effect was small and potentially trivial. No robust evidence supports secondary benefits such as enhanced energy or improved overall health. Quality of life improvements, if any, are more likely associated with specific components like DHEA rather than the extract as a whole. The effect sizes for any benefits are typically small and of questionable clinical significance. The effect on quality of life from DHEA was small and may not be clinically significant.

How it works

The steroid hormones in adrenal cortex extracts can interact with various biological pathways, including the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. Glucocorticoids like cortisol and cortisone can affect metabolism, immune response, and stress response, while androgens like DHEA can influence hormonal balance and energy metabolism. These hormones can interact with multiple body systems, including the endocrine, immune, and metabolic systems. Glucocorticoids bind to glucocorticoid receptors, while androgens bind to androgen receptors. The absorption and bioavailability of the hormones in adrenal cortex extracts can vary widely depending on the formulation and individual metabolism.

Side effects

The safety profile of adrenal cortex extracts is a concern due to the potential presence of active steroid hormones, which can have significant side effects. A study found that many over-the-counter "adrenal support" supplements contain detectable amounts of thyroid and steroid hormones, which could pose health risks. There is limited data on common side effects specifically for adrenal cortex extracts. However, the presence of steroid hormones could lead to side effects such as weight gain, mood changes, and sleep disturbances. Potential side effects include increased blood pressure, glucose intolerance, and other glucocorticoid-related adverse effects. Rare but serious side effects could include adrenal suppression, Cushing's syndrome, and other hormonal imbalances. Adrenal cortex extracts could interact with other medications, particularly those affecting the HPA axis or other hormonal systems. Individuals with certain medical conditions, such as Cushing's syndrome, adrenal insufficiency, or those taking corticosteroids, should avoid these supplements. Pregnant or breastfeeding women, children, and individuals with chronic diseases should exercise caution and consult healthcare providers before using these supplements.

Dosage

There is no established minimum effective dose for adrenal cortex extracts due to the lack of standardized formulations and clinical trials. No optimal dosage ranges have been established. The variability in hormone content and individual responses makes it difficult to recommend specific dosages. There is no defined maximum safe dose, but high doses of steroid hormones can lead to significant adverse effects. There is no evidence to support specific timing recommendations for the use of adrenal cortex extracts. The form of the supplement (e.g., capsules, tablets) does not significantly impact the efficacy or safety, but bioavailability may vary. Absorption can be influenced by the formulation, individual metabolism, and the presence of other substances that may affect hormone absorption.

FAQs

Are adrenal cortex extracts safe?

The safety of these supplements is a significant concern due to the potential for hormonal imbalances and other side effects. Consultation with a healthcare provider is recommended before starting these supplements.

How should I take adrenal cortex extracts?

There is no specific timing or administration protocol established for these supplements. Users should be cautious due to the potential presence of active steroid hormones and the lack of regulation.

What results can I expect from taking adrenal cortex extracts?

There is limited evidence to support any significant benefits, and users should be cautious of exaggerated claims. A common misconception is that these supplements can safely and effectively treat adrenal fatigue without medical supervision.

Research Sources

https://academic.oup.com/jcem/article/100/6/2171/2829580?login=false – This systematic review and meta-analysis of DHEA effects in women with primary or secondary adrenal insufficiency found that DHEA may improve quality of life, but the effect is small and potentially trivial. The study highlights the limited number of studies and small effect sizes, leading to a moderate quality assessment.
https://academic.oup.com/jcem/article/108/9/e885/7075217 – An analytical study of 12 dietary adrenal support supplements found that many contained detectable amounts of thyroid and steroid hormones, posing potential health risks. This study underscores the lack of regulation in the supplement industry and the potential for undisclosed ingredients.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29672878/ – This systematic review examined the quality of life in 13,717 subjects with confirmed adrenal disease. The review found that quality of life is reduced in patients with adrenal disease, and while therapy can improve it, the improvement is not complete, highlighting the challenges in managing adrenal conditions.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29502560/ – This citation does not contain a direct URL, but refers to research on adrenal disease. The research likely discusses the complexities of adrenal conditions and the need for careful management, but specific details are unavailable without the full text.
https://academic.oup.com/jcem/article-abstract/94/10/3676/2596570?redirectedFrom=fulltext – This abstract discusses the effects of DHEA in women with adrenal insufficiency. The study suggests a potential improvement in quality of life, but the overall clinical significance is limited due to small effect sizes and study limitations.