Ballwin, MO
A 59-year-old female asked:
Which is the better steroid replacement, prednidone or cortef (hydrocortisone)? for secondary adrenal insufficiency.
2 doctor answers • 3 doctors weighed in

Dr. Klaus d Lessnauanswered
Pulmonary Critical Care 37 years experience
Same thing: Depends the dose
check with your doc asap.
5.5k viewsAnswered >2 years ago

A Verified Doctoranswered
29 years experience
I like Cortef (hydrocortisone) best: For adults it's a personal preference, but Hydrocortisone (cortef (hydrocortisone)) gives more physiologic steroid hormone replacement. Doses much easier to adjust, though trade-off is taking 3 times/day because 1/2 life is shorter than prednisone. Prednisone is much stronger than Hydrocortisone so it's easier to get cushingoid taking it, especially because dose can't be manipulated as finely as with cortef (hydrocortisone).
5.5k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Last updated Apr 5, 2016
People also asked
Connect with a U.S. board-certified doctor by text or video anytime, anywhere.
24/7 visits - just $39!
50% off with $15/month membership
Disclaimer:
Content on HealthTap (including answers) should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and interactions on HealthTap do not create a doctor-patient relationship. Never disregard or delay professional medical advice in person because of anything on HealthTap. Call your doctor or 911 if you think you may have a medical emergency.