Introduction
Hydrocortisone (trade name: Alkindi) has been approved in Germany since May 2018 for the treatment of adrenal insufficiency specifically in newborn babies, children and teenagers.
The adrenal glands produce various , including cortisol. This hormone influences many metabolic processes in the body. For instance, it regulates the conversion of energy in the body’s cells, and also affects blood sugar levels, the and bone metabolism. Sometimes the adrenal glands don’t work as well as they normally should. Known as adrenal insufficiency, this condition can lead to low blood sugar levels, nausea, exhaustion and pain in the muscles, joints and bones. If this hormone deficiency isn’t treated, it can become life-threatening.
The drug hydrocortisone is used to replace the hormone cortisol, with the aim of preventing these symptoms and effects of the cortisol deficiency.