Modified-release hydrocortisone (Plenadren) launched for adrenal insufficiency

3 December 2012

Plenadren (hydrocortisone) is indicated for maintenance therapy in adrenal insufficiency.

Modified-release hydrocortisone is not associated with the non-physiological cortisol peaks produced by standard glucocorticoid therapy.

Plenadren (hydrocortisone) is a modified-release hydrocortisone tablet given once daily. It is intended to better mimic the physiological pattern of cortisol production than standard glucocorticoid replacement therapy.

Cortisol exposure

In a randomised open-label 12-week crossover study in 64 patients with primary adrenal insufficiency, once-daily modified-release hydrocortisone resulted in increased cortisol exposure during the first four hours after intake in the morning, with reduced exposure in the late afternoon and evening and over the 24-hour period compared with standard-release hydrocortisone (given three times daily). The safety profile was similar to that of conventional hydrocortisone.

View Plenadren drug record

Further information: ViroPharma

Follow MIMS on Twitter