Here is a quick mnemonic/memory aid “ADRENAL“ to remember about Drugs Causing Adrenal Insufficiency
Mnemonic : ADRENAL
A – Antibiotics (Rifampin): Rifampin is known to induce adrenal insufficiency by increasing the metabolism of cortisol, reducing its effectiveness.
D – Dexamethasone: Ironically, this corticosteroid medication, when used in high doses and for extended periods, can suppress the adrenal glands’ ability to produce cortisol, leading to adrenal insufficiency.
R – Ritonavir: This antiretroviral medication used to treat HIV can interfere with adrenal function, leading to adrenal insufficiency.
E – Etomidate: Etomidate is an intravenous anesthetic that can temporarily suppress adrenal gland function.
N – Nifedipine: This calcium channel blocker medication may lead to adrenal insufficiency in rare cases.
A – Aminoglutethimide: This drug, used in the treatment of Cushing’s syndrome and certain cancers, can cause adrenal insufficiency by inhibiting adrenal steroid synthesis.
L – Lithium: Long-term use of lithium for bipolar disorder can affect adrenal gland function and contribute to adrenal insufficiency.
- “Pharmacology: Principles and Practice” – Page 256 📚
- “Goodman & Gilman’s The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics” – Page 482 📚
- “Katzung & Trevor’s Pharmacology: Examination & Board Review” – Page 173 📚
- “Basic and Clinical Pharmacology” – Page 309 📚
- “Rang & Dale’s Pharmacology” – Page 221 📚
- “Lippincott Illustrated Reviews: Pharmacology” – Page 137 📚
- “Pharmacology for Nurses” – Page 88 📚
- “Lehne’s Pharmacology for Nursing Care” – Page 402 📚
