What is the treatment for Addison's disease
Cortisol replacement
You need steroid medication to replace the cortisol which you no longer make. This is usually with a medicine called hydrocortisone which is very similar to cortisol. The dose is usually about 20 mg first thing in the morning and 10 mg at 6 pm. Some people need more than this, and others less.
If you have an illness such as an infection, or an accident, or anything else causing major stress such as an operation, you should double the dose. If you vomit and cannot take medication by mouth, you should have the hydrocortisone by injection. You should never miss a dose.
You are strongly advised to wear a bracelet, necklace or similar which can alert people that you need hydrocortisone in case of emergencies. For example, if you are knocked out in a car crash and are not able to tell the doctor that you have Addison's disease. Apart from any other treatment you will always need your hydrocortisone (or similar steroid replacement for cortisol).
Replacing aldosterone
Fludrocortisone is a substitute medicine for aldosterone. This helps to regulate blood pressure and blood salt level. You may also be advised to take extra salt each day.
If you have an Addisonian crisis
This is a medical emergency. You will be given hydrocortisone injections, a 'drip' of fluid to bring up your blood pressure, and may need intensive care until the crisis is over, You will then need to continue taking hydrocortisone medication as detailed above.
Further help and advice
Addison's Disease Self Help Group
Web: www.addisonsdisease.org.uk
The group offers advice, information, newsletters and contact with fellow group members.
MedicAlert Foundation
1 Bridge Wharf, 156 Caledonian Road, London, N1 9UU
Tel: 0800 581 420 Web: www.medicalert.co.uk
Medic-alert bracelets are often worn by people where emergencies may possibly arise (such as people with diabetes, severe allergies, Addison's disease, epilepsy, etc).
© EMIS and PIP 2006 Updated: November 2006
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