Pharmaceutical Research and Therapeutic Sciences

ABSTRACT

Solu-Cortef® (hydrocortisone sodium succinate) is a widely used corticosteroid administered intravenously or intramuscularly for the management of adrenal crisis, septic shock, severe allergic reactions, inflammatory disorders, and perioperative stress conditions. Although parenteral administration is essential during acute illness, prolonged use of injectable corticosteroids may increase healthcare costs, prolong hospitalization, and expose patients to complications associated with intravenous therapy. Therefore, timely conversion from injectable hydrocortisone to oral hydrocortisone represents an important step in patient management. The present review examines the pharmacological rationale, clinical considerations, dose equivalence, and therapeutic outcomes associated with the transition from Solu-Cortef injection to oral hydrocortisone therapy. A comprehensive review of published literature was conducted using peer-reviewed articles, clinical guidelines, and pharmacological references retrieved from major biomedical databases. Evidence insufficiency. Furthermore, individualized tapering regimens may be required in patients receiving prolonged corticosteroid therapy to minimize withdrawal symptoms and hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis suppression. Clinical evidence suggests that early conversion to oral hydrocortisone is associated with improved patient convenience, reduced hospital stay, lower treatment costs, and comparable clinical outcomes. In conclusion, conversion from Solu-Cortef injection to oral hydrocortisone is a safe, effective, and evidence-based practice that supports optimal patient care when implemented according to established clinical guidelines and individualized therapeutic requirements.

Keywords: Solu-Cortef; Hydrocortisone; Injectable to Oral Conversion; Corticosteroids; Adrenal Insufficiency; Dose Equivalence