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Patel VK, Vaishnaw A, Shirbhate E, Kore R, Singh V, Veerasamy R, Rajak H. Cortisol as a Target for Treating Mental Disorders: A Promising Avenue for Therapy. Mini Rev Med Chem 2024; 24:588-600. [PMID: 37861053 DOI: 10.2174/0113895575262104230928042150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Cortisol, commonly known as the "stress hormone," plays a critical role in the body's response to stress. Elevated cortisol levels have been associated with various mental disorders, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Consequently, researchers have explored cortisol modulation as a promising avenue for treating these conditions. However, the availability of research on cortisol as a therapeutic option for mental disorders is limited, and existing studies employ diverse methodologies and outcome measures. This review article aimed to provide insights into different treatment approaches, both pharmacological and non-pharmacological, which can effectively modulate cortisol levels. Pharmacological interventions involve the use of substances, such as somatostatin analogs, dopamine agonists, corticotropin-releasing hormone antagonists, and cortisol synthesis inhibitors. Additionally, non-pharmacological techniques, including cognitivebehavioral therapy, herbs and supplements, transcranial magnetic stimulation, lifestyle changes, and surgery, have been investigated to reduce cortisol levels. The emerging evidence suggests that cortisol modulation could be a promising treatment option for mental disorders. However, more research is needed to fully understand the effectiveness and safety of these therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vijay K Patel
- Pushpendra College of Pharmacy, Ambikapur, Surguja 497101, (C.G.), India
| | - Aayush Vaishnaw
- Dr. C.V. Raman Institute of Pharmacy, Dr. C.V. Raman University, Bilaspur, C.G. 495113, India
| | - Ekta Shirbhate
- Department of Pharmacy, Guru Ghasidas University, Bilaspur 495 009, (C.G.), India
| | - Rakesh Kore
- Department of Pharmacy, Guru Ghasidas University, Bilaspur 495 009, (C.G.), India
| | - Vaibhav Singh
- Department of Pharmacy, Guru Ghasidas University, Bilaspur 495 009, (C.G.), India
| | - Ravichandran Veerasamy
- Faculty of Pharmacy, AIMST University, Semeling, 08100 Bedong, Kedah Darul Aman, Malaysia
| | - Harish Rajak
- Department of Pharmacy, Guru Ghasidas University, Bilaspur 495 009, (C.G.), India
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Ratzinger-Stoeger G, Anzengruber M, Skoll K, Ertl DA, Hartmann G, Gabor F. Formulation and characterisation of metyrapone suppositories for the first effective long-term use in an infant with McCune-Albright syndrome-related Cushing syndrome. Eur J Hosp Pharm 2023:ejhpharm-2023-003853. [PMID: 38050051 DOI: 10.1136/ejhpharm-2023-003853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of this project was to develop a rectal formulation of metyrapone suitable for application in an infant hospitalised with McCune-Albright syndrome (MAS)-related Cushing syndrome and to provide a detailed description of the formulation protocol including quality control parameters. METHODS Suppositories with a drug load of up to 100 mg metyrapone were prepared. Mass variation, content uniformity and drug release were analysed according to the guidelines set out by the European Pharmacopoeia. Monitoring of the drug content for 6 weeks allowed for estimation of the storage stability at 2-8°C. RESULTS A protocol for the reproducible preparation of suppositories with intended metyrapone content of 30-100 mg was established. The suppositories were well tolerated by the patient and the clinical outcome is promising. The suppository preparations complied with the regulations from the European Pharmacopoeia. Further, a stability of the rectal formulation of at least 1 month was confirmed, facilitating medication supply for home care. CONCLUSIONS An adequate and easy to follow protocol for preparation of high-quality metyrapone suppositories, with sufficient stability for practical use and fulfilling major pharmaceutical quality parameters, was established. The protocol can be easily replicated by skilled personnel in a community pharmacy facilitating treatment of the infant in home care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maria Anzengruber
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Vienna, Wien, Austria
| | - Katharina Skoll
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Vienna, Wien, Austria
| | - Diana-Alexandra Ertl
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Wien, Austria
- Vienna Bone and Growth Center, Medical University of Vienna, Wien, Austria
| | - Gabriele Hartmann
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Wien, Austria
- Vienna Bone and Growth Center, Medical University of Vienna, Wien, Austria
| | - Franz Gabor
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Vienna, Wien, Austria
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Concepción-Zavaleta MJ, Armas CD, Quiroz-Aldave JE, García-Villasante EJ, Gariza-Solano AC, Durand-Vásquez MDC, Concepción-Urteaga LA, Zavaleta-Gutiérrez FE. Cushing disease in pediatrics: an update. Ann Pediatr Endocrinol Metab 2023; 28:87-97. [PMID: 37401055 DOI: 10.6065/apem.2346074.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Cushing disease (CD) is the main cause of endogenous Cushing syndrome (CS) and is produced by an adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)-producing pituitary adenoma. Its relevance in pediatrics is due to the retardation of both growth and developmental processes because of hypercortisolism. In childhood, the main features of CS are facial changes, rapid or exaggerated weight gain, hirsutism, virilization, and acne. Endogenous hypercortisolism should be established after exogenous CS has been ruled out based on 24-hour urinary free cortisol, midnight serum or salivary cortisol, and dexamethasone suppression test; after that, ACTH dependence should be established. The diagnosis should be confirmed by pathology. The goal of treatment is to normalize cortisol level and reverse the signs and symptoms. Treatment options include surgery, medication, radiotherapy, or combined therapy. CD represents a challenge for physicians owing to its multiple associated conditions involving growth and pubertal development; thus, it is important to achieve an early diagnosis and treatment in order to control hypercortisolism and improve the prognosis. Its rarity in pediatric patients has led physicians to have limited experience in its management. The objective of this narrative review is to summarize the current knowledge about the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of CD in the pediatric population.
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Mehlich A, Bolanowski M, Mehlich D, Witek P. Medical treatment of Cushing's disease with concurrent diabetes mellitus. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1174119. [PMID: 37139336 PMCID: PMC10150952 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1174119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Cushing's disease (CD) is a severe endocrine disorder characterized by chronic hypercortisolaemia secondary to an overproduction of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) by a pituitary adenoma. Cortisol excess impairs normal glucose homeostasis through many pathophysiological mechanisms. The varying degrees of glucose intolerance, including impaired fasting glucose, impaired glucose tolerance, and Diabetes Mellitus (DM) are commonly observed in patients with CD and contribute to significant morbidity and mortality. Although definitive surgical treatment of ACTH-secreting tumors remains the most effective therapy to control both cortisol levels and glucose metabolism, nearly one-third of patients present with persistent or recurrent disease and require additional treatments. In recent years, several medical therapies demonstrated prominent clinical efficacy in the management of patients with CD for whom surgery was non-curative or for those who are ineligible to undergo surgical treatment. Cortisol-lowering medications may have different effects on glucose metabolism, partially independent of their role in normalizing hypercortisolaemia. The expanding therapeutic landscape offers new opportunities for the tailored therapy of patients with CD who present with glucose intolerance or DM, however, additional clinical studies are needed to determine the optimal management strategies. In this article, we discuss the pathophysiology of impaired glucose metabolism caused by cortisol excess and review the clinical efficacy of medical therapies of CD, with particular emphasis on their effects on glucose homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Mehlich
- Department of Internal Medicine, Endocrinology and Diabetes, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Marek Bolanowski
- Chair and Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Isotope Treatment, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Dawid Mehlich
- Laboratory of Molecular OncoSignalling, International Institute of Molecular Mechanisms and Machines (IMol) Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
- Doctoral School of Medical University of Warsaw, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
- Laboratory of Experimental Medicine, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Przemysław Witek
- Department of Internal Medicine, Endocrinology and Diabetes, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
- *Correspondence: Przemysław Witek,
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Vega-Beyhart A, Laguna-Moreno J, Díaz-Catalán D, Boswell L, Mora M, Halperin I, Casals G, Hanzu FA. Ketoconazole- and Metyrapone-Induced Reductions on Urinary Steroid Metabolites Alter the Urinary Free Cortisol Immunoassay Reliability in Cushing Syndrome. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:833644. [PMID: 35282465 PMCID: PMC8905543 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.833644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Twenty-four-hour urinary free cortisol (24h-UFC) is the most used test for follow-up decision-making in patients with Cushing syndrome (CS) under medical treatment. However, 24h-UFC determinations by immunoassays (IA) are commonly overestimated because of steroid metabolites' cross-reaction. It is still uncertain how ketoconazole (KTZ)- and metyrapone (MTP)-induced changes on the urinary steroid metabolites can alter the 24h-UFC*IA determinations' reliability. METHODS 24h-UFC was analyzed by IA and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) in 193 samples (81 before treatment, 73 during KTZ, and 39 during MTP) from 34 CS patients. In addition, urinary steroidome was analyzed by GC-MS on each patient before and during treatment. RESULTS Before treatment, 24h-UFC*IA determinations were overestimated by a factor of 1.75 (95% CI 1.60-1.94) compared to those by GC-MS. However, during KTZ treatment, 24h-UFC*IA results were similar (0.98:1) to those by GC-MS (95% CI, 0.83-1.20). In patients taking MTP, IA bias only decreased 0.55, resulting in persistence of an overestimation factor of 1.33:1 (95% CI, 1.09-1.76). High method agreement between GC-MS and IA before treatment (R2 = 0.954) declined in patients under KTZ (R2 = 0.632) but not in MTP (R2 = 0.917). Upper limit normal (ULN) reductions in patients taking KTZ were 27% larger when using 24h-UFC*IA compared to 24h-UFC*GC-MS, which resulted in higher false efficacy and misleading biochemical classification of 15% of patients. Urinary excretion changes of 22 urinary steroid metabolites explained 86% of the 24h-UFC*IA interference. Larger urinary excretion reductions of 6β-hydroxy-cortisol, 20α-dihydrocortisol, and 18-hydroxy-cortisol in patients with KTZ elucidated the higher 24h-UFC*IA bias decrement compared to MTP-treated patients. CONCLUSION KTZ and MTP alter the urinary excretion of IA cross-reactive steroid metabolites, thus decreasing the cross-reactive interference of 24h-UFC*IA determinations present before treatment. Consequently, this interference reduction in 24h-UFC*IA leads to loss of method agreement with GC-MS and high risk of overestimating the biochemical impact of KTZ and MTP in controlling CS because of poor reliability of reference ranges and ULN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arturo Vega-Beyhart
- Group of Endocrine Disorders, Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, Barcelona, Spain
- Endocrinology and Nutrition Department, Hospital Clinic, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Daniela Díaz-Catalán
- Group of Endocrine Disorders, Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Laura Boswell
- Group of Endocrine Disorders, Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, Barcelona, Spain
- Endocrinology and Nutrition Department, Hospital Clinic, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mireia Mora
- Group of Endocrine Disorders, Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, Barcelona, Spain
- Endocrinology and Nutrition Department, Hospital Clinic, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas (CIBERDEM), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Irene Halperin
- Group of Endocrine Disorders, Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, Barcelona, Spain
- Endocrinology and Nutrition Department, Hospital Clinic, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gregori Casals
- Biomedical Diagnostics Center, Hospital Clinic, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Felicia A. Hanzu
- Group of Endocrine Disorders, Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, Barcelona, Spain
- Endocrinology and Nutrition Department, Hospital Clinic, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas (CIBERDEM), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- *Correspondence: Felicia A. Hanzu,
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