PLASMA LEVELS OF 17-HYDROXYCORTICOSTEROIDS FOLLOWING THE ADMINISTRATION OF ADRENAL STEROIDS

Abstract
Plasma concentration of intravenously administered hydrocortisone and cortisone decreased exponentially with time. Results following oral ingestion of adrenal steroids were variable. It appeared to be related to the physical form in which the steroid was given, and only secondarily to the rate of absorption. However, this mode of therapy is advantageous because of the ability to control the height and duration of the plasma levels by selection of preparations with the desired rates of solution in the gastro-intestinal tract.