The only treatment for Addison’s disease is medication to correct levels of cortisol and aldosterone in the body. Cortisol is replaced with a synthetic version, such as hydrocortisone (Cortef), prednisone (Prednisone Intensol, Rayos) or methylprednisolone (Medrol). Aldosterone is replaced with a synthetic version called fludrocortisone acetate.
Addison’s disease is a lifelong condition, so you’ll need to take these medications for the rest of your life.
Dosages of these medications vary from person to person, and your doctor may tell you to take more or less of them during certain times in your life. For example, if you are sick or scheduled to have surgery, your doctor may tell you to take more of these medications because more of these hormones are needed when your body is under stress.
You may also need to up your sodium intake while taking these medications, especially during heavy exercise, hot weather, or if you’re having digestive issues such as diarrhea.