DAY 2 — CASE 14: What is the most appropriate medication for a patient with Addison disease (adrenal insufficiency)?

Correct answer: A. Corticosteroids (hydrocortisone/cortisol replacement)

• A. Addison disease is ADRENAL CORTEX INSUFFICIENCY — the adrenal glands cannot produce adequate cortisol (and aldosterone). Treatment is CORTICOSTEROID REPLACEMENT THERAPY: hydrocortisone (cortisol) for glucocorticoid replacement and fludrocortisone for mineralocorticoid replacement. For dental treatment, a stress dose of steroids may be needed to prevent adrenal crisis.
• B. Antibiotics treat bacterial infections — not the treatment for adrenal insufficiency.
• C. Antifungals treat fungal infections — not indicated for Addison disease management.
• D. Vasopressors are used for acute hemodynamic crisis but are not the ongoing management medication.