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[Hypophyseal-adrenal cortex system function after administration supraphysiological doses of corticosteroids on
Problemy Endokrinologii
|July 1, 1984
Summary
Supraphysiological hydrocortisone doses disrupt rabbit hypophyseal-adrenocortical function long-term. This study details three distinct periods of dysfunction following injection, impacting stress response and hormone levels.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Pharmacology
- Animal Physiology
Background:
- The hypophyseal-adrenocortical system regulates stress response.
- Hydrocortisone is a key corticosteroid hormone.
- Understanding exogenous corticosteroid effects is crucial for endocrine research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the long-term effects of supraphysiological hydrocortisone on rabbit hypophyseal-adrenocortical function.
- To characterize the temporal changes in basal corticosteroid levels, adrenocortical reactivity to ACTH, and stressor response.
Main Methods:
- Rabbits received hydrocortisone injections (10 mg twice daily for 2 days).
- Blood corticosteroid basal levels were measured.
- Adrenocortical reactivity to ACTH was assessed.
- The system's response to immobilization stress was evaluated over time.
Main Results:
- Three distinct periods of hypophyseal-adrenocortical dysfunction were observed.
- Period 1: Inhibited adrenocortical reactivity, absent stress response, normal basal corticosteroids.
- Period 2: Elevated basal corticosteroids, restored ACTH reactivity, but absent stress response.
- Period 3: Gradual normalization of all parameters.
Conclusions:
- Supraphysiological hydrocortisone causes prolonged disruption of the hypophyseal-adrenocortical axis in rabbits.
- The system exhibits a phased recovery, with initial suppression followed by altered reactivity and eventual normalization.
- These findings highlight the complex and long-lasting impact of high-dose corticosteroid administration.