Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 4

The adrenal cortex is the source of endogenous corticosteroids, which play a central role in the management of inflammatory and autoimmune diseases such as Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). The use of adrenal cortex extracts or, more specifically, corticosteroids derived from the adrenal cortex (such as prednisone, prednisolone, and hydrocortisone), is strongly supported by scientific evidence in both the historical and modern medical literature. The discovery in the 1940s that cortisone (a glucocorticoid hormone produced by the adrenal cortex) could dramatically reduce the symptoms of RA was a milestone in rheumatology. Corticosteroids act by suppressing the immune response and reducing inflammation, thereby alleviating pain, swelling, and joint damage in RA patients.

Multiple randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses have demonstrated that corticosteroids are effective in rapidly controlling symptoms and slowing radiographic progression of joint damage when used as part of a comprehensive RA management plan. However, their long-term use is limited by significant side effects, including osteoporosis, hypertension, diabetes, and increased infection risk. Therefore, while corticosteroids remain an important treatment modality, they are typically used in the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible duration.

It is important to note that while purified corticosteroids have clear scientific support, the use of whole adrenal cortex extracts (e.g., as dietary supplements) is not considered standard or effective therapy in evidence-based medicine. Instead, the validated benefit comes from pharmaceutical preparations of specific adrenal cortex hormones.

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