Last verified: 17 days ago
Adrenal Extract
Also known as: adrenal cortex extract, adrenal glandular, suprarenal extract, organotherapy extract
Evidence under review. — Not yet rated
Animal-derived gland extract with no modern clinical trials supporting its use as a supplement.
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What it does
Adrenal extract is a product derived from the adrenal glands of animals, historically used in early endocrinology research in the late 1800s and early 1900s. The active compounds identified in...
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Evidence quality
Evidence base hasn't been formally rated yet. See research below.
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Clinical dose
No established dose (insufficient research data)
What the Science Says
Adrenal extract is a product derived from the adrenal glands of animals, historically used in early endocrinology research in the late 1800s and early 1900s. The active compounds identified in early adrenal extracts were epinephrine (adrenaline) and norepinephrine — stress hormones that raise blood pressure and affect blood sugar. No modern clinical trials have tested adrenal extract supplements in humans for any health outcome.
What It Doesn't Do
No evidence it treats adrenal fatigue — that condition isn't recognized by mainstream medicine. Won't restore hormone balance. No proof it boosts energy or reduces stress in humans. The historical research on adrenal extracts was about isolated compounds like epinephrine, not the whole-gland supplements sold today.
Absorption & Bioavailability
Unknown — oral adrenal glandular products have not been studied for bioavailability. Hormones like epinephrine are largely broken down in the digestive tract.
Red Flags to Watch For
- No modern clinical trials exist for adrenal extract supplements — the provided evidence base is entirely historical or pre-clinical
- Over 1,000 supplement products contain this ingredient despite zero human efficacy data
- May contain active hormones from animal tissue, posing unknown risks for people with cardiovascular conditions or hormone-sensitive conditions
- Commonly marketed for 'adrenal fatigue,' a diagnosis not recognized by endocrinology or mainstream medicine
- No regulatory oversight of hormone content in glandular supplements — potency and safety are unverified
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Adrenal Extract do?
Animal-derived gland extract with no modern clinical trials supporting its use as a supplement.
What is the effective dose of Adrenal Extract?
No established dose (insufficient research data)
Is Adrenal Extract safe?
No modern clinical trials exist for adrenal extract supplements — the provided evidence base is entirely historical or pre-clinical
What doesn't Adrenal Extract do?
No evidence it treats adrenal fatigue — that condition isn't recognized by mainstream medicine.
Research Sources
- PubMed
- NIH DSLD
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Last updated: 2026-05-25