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Effects of hydrocortisone administration on cognitive function in the elderly
Richard J Porter1, Nicola A Barnett, Ariane Idey
1Department of Psychological Medicine, Christchurch School of Medicine, New Zealand.
Journal of Psychopharmacology (Oxford, England)
|April 13, 2002
Summary
Short-term hydrocortisone did not affect cognitive function in healthy older adults. This contrasts with younger individuals, suggesting age-related differences in cortisol sensitivity.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Endocrinology
- Gerontology
Background:
- Elevated corticosteroids can negatively impact cognitive function.
- Cortisol levels may predict cognitive decline in the elderly.
- Previous research has not directly examined hydrocortisone's cognitive effects in healthy older adults.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the direct effects of hydrocortisone on cognitive functioning in healthy elderly individuals.
Main Methods:
- A placebo-controlled, double-blind, cross-over trial involving 16 healthy elderly subjects.
- Administration of hydrocortisone (20 mg) or placebo twice, before cognitive testing.
- Comprehensive neuropsychological testing assessing attention, working memory, declarative memory, and executive function.
Main Results:
- Hydrocortisone significantly elevated salivary cortisol levels (approx. 10-fold) compared to placebo.
- No significant effects of hydrocortisone were observed on memory or other cognitive functions.
- Cognitive performance remained unaffected despite short-term cortisol elevation.
Conclusions:
- Short-term hydrocortisone administration does not impair cognitive functions in healthy older adults.
- The elderly may exhibit reduced sensitivity to acute cortisol increases compared to younger individuals.
- Age-related downregulation of hippocampal glucocorticoid receptors might explain this diminished sensitivity.