QUANTITATIVE HORMONE REQUIREMENTS*

Abstract

The frequently repeated request concerning the amount of hormone required in the treatment of endocrine disorders has stimulated thoughtful consideration of this topic. So far, however, no general rule has been established beyond the assertion that an attempt should be made to meet the individual requirements. As opposed to hormones, the older and better known drugs are frequently assumed to have an established dosage, so that the average graduate from medical school has quite a definite idea of the kind and amount of drug to be employed when a definite disease or condition has been diagnosed. By comparison they expect similarly definite statements concerning hormone requirements. Careful reflection, however, will show that even the standard drugs exhibit considerable variations in their actions. A few of these drugs credited with a specific action and dosage will be mentioned here for comparison with the hormones.