Adrenal Extract

Also indexed as: Protomorphogen (Adrenal), Suprarenal Extract

What does it do? The adrenal glands are a pair of small glands that lie just above the kidneys. Adrenal extracts are derived from the adrenal glands of bovine (beef) sources. Commercially available adrenal extracts are made using the whole gland (whole or total adrenal extracts) or just the cortex or outer portion of the gland (adrenal cortex extracts).

The possible benefits of adrenal extract are thought to be the result of a combination of supplying small amounts of adrenal hormones and promoting improved adrenal function. The adrenal medulla secretes the hormones epinephrine (adrenaline) and norepinephrine (noradrenaline), while the adrenal cortex secretes an entirely different group of hormones called corticosteroids. Although all corticosteroids have similar chemical formulas, they differ in function. The three major types of corticosteroids are mineralocorticoids (e.g., aldosterone), glucocorticoids (cortisol or cortisone) and 17-ketosteroids (e.g., dehydroepiandrosterone [DHEA]).

Adrenal extracts have been used in modern medicine since 1931, primarily in the injectable form along with vitamin B6, vitamin B12, or vitamin C. Although there is little in the area of scientific documentation for oral administration, a series of animal studies demonstrated that oral administration of adrenal extract to mice, rats, and dogs who had their adrenal glands removed produced the same activity as injectable adrenal extract.1 2 3

Whole adrenal extracts (usually in combination with essential nutrients required for proper adrenal function) are most often used in cases of low adrenal function presenting as fatigue, inability to cope with stress, and reduced resistance to infection. Because extracts made from the adrenal cortex contain small amounts of corticosteroids, they are typically used as “natural” cortisone in cases of allergy and inflammation (asthma, eczema, psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, etc.). The effectiveness of adrenal extracts in these applications is unknown at this time. People taking prescribed corticosteroids should never substitute these drugs with an adrenal extract and should consult their physician before adding an adrenal extract to their steroid treatment.

In a preliminary study done in the 1930s, eight women suffering from nausea and vomiting during the first trimester of pregnancy received large amounts of oral adrenal cortex extract. In most cases, vomiting stopped after 3–4 days.4 In a follow-up study, 202 women with nausea and vomiting due to pregnancy received adrenal cortex extract, usually by injection at first, followed by oral administration. More than 85% of the women were completely relieved of the problem or showed definite improvement.5

Where is it found? Adrenal extracts are available in capsules or tablets. Adrenal extracts prepared for injection were commonly used at one time, but currently are unavailable.

Adrenal extract has been used in connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual health concern for complete information):

Rating Health Concerns
1Star Fatigue
Morning sickness
3Stars Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
2Stars Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
1Star An herb is primarily supported by traditional use, or the herb or supplement has little scientific support and/or minimal health benefit.

Who is likely to be deficient? As adrenal extract is not an essential nutrient, no nutritional deficiency state exists. However, some people sub-optimal adrenal function or frank adrenal insufficiency. The diagnosis of adrenal problems should be made by a physician.

How much is usually taken? The amount of adrenal extract taken will depend upon the quality and potency of the product. Follow the recommendations given on the product label or those given by your healthcare provider.

Are there any side effects or interactions? Stomach irritation and/or nausea is a common side effect, especially with higher potency products. Other possible side effects include a general stimulatory effect that may manifest as anxiety, irritability, and/or insomnia. Since no safety data exist for use during pregnancy or breast-feeding, adrenal extract should not be used in these situations unless supervised by a doctor.

Consumption of excessive amounts may produce signs and symptoms of corticosteroid excess similar to those experienced with the drug prednisone. However, serious side effects are not likely to result from taking a large amount of an adrenal extract for a short period of time or from excessive intake on a single occasion, but rather from long-term use of high amounts. With prednisone (a synthetic cortisone-like drug) at lower doses (less than 10 mg per day), the most notable side effects are usually increased appetite, weight gain, retention of salt and water, and increased susceptibility to infection.

At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions with adrenal extract.

References:

1. Craveri F, De Pascale V. Activity of orally administered adrenocortical extract. I. Effect on the survival test. Boll Chim Farm 1971;110:457–62.

2. Craveri F, De Pascale V. Activity of orally administered adrenocortical extract. II. Effect on liver glycogenesis and sodium retention. Boll Chim Farm 1971;110:457–62.

3. Craveri F, De Pascale V. Activity of orally administered adrenocortical extract. III. Effect in tests based on muscular work. Boll Chim Farm 1971;110:457–62.

4. Kemp WN. Hyperemesis gravidarum treated as a temporary adrenal cortex deficiency. Can Med Assoc J 1933;28:389–91.

5. Kemp WN. The vomiting of pregnancy treated as a temporary relative insufficiency of maternal corticoadrenal function. Med Rec 1934;140:239–41.