Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 10, 2026
09:11
Cortisol Measurement in Koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) Fur
Published on: August 23, 2019
Atypical hypocortisolism
Koen M A Dreijerink1, Linda M Kampschreur, Eef G W M Lentjes
1Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands Section of Endocrinology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
Summary
Quetiapine use can lead to reversible hypocortisolism, a condition of low cortisol levels. This study details a patient case where discontinuing quetiapine normalized cortisol production.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Quetiapine is an atypical antipsychotic used for various psychiatric conditions.
- Endocrine side effects of medications require careful monitoring.
Observation:
- A patient using quetiapine presented with low early morning cortisol levels.
- Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) stimulation testing confirmed hypocortisolism.
Findings:
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the pituitary gland was normal.
- Cortisol levels normalized after temporary hydrocortisone treatment and quetiapine tapering.
- This is the first reported case of hypocortisolism linked to quetiapine use.
Implications:
- Quetiapine-induced hypocortisolism may be an underrecognized cause of malaise in patients.
- Clinicians should consider monitoring cortisol levels in patients on long-term quetiapine therapy.
- Further research is warranted to explore the prevalence and mechanisms of quetiapine-related hypocortisolism.
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