What is the main purpose of adrenal steroid therapy?

The primary purpose of adrenal steroid therapy is to serve as replacement therapy for adrenal hormone deficiencies. This therapy is essential for individuals whose adrenal glands do not produce adequate amounts of hormones, particularly cortisol, which is crucial for various metabolic processes and maintaining homeostasis within the body. Conditions such as Addison's disease or adrenal insufficiency can result in a significant deficit of these hormones, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and low blood pressure. Administering adrenal steroids helps to stabilize these hormonal levels, thus alleviating the symptoms associated with their deficiency.

While some of the other options touch upon effects that steroids might have, they do not represent the main purpose of adrenal steroid therapy. For instance, the regulation of blood sugar levels and immune function can indeed be influenced by steroid hormone actions, but these are secondary effects rather than the primary intent of therapy aimed at correcting hormonal deficiencies. Similarly, while increasing muscle strength may occur as a side effect in some cases, it is not the central goal of the treatment. The focus remains on restoring adequate hormone levels to support bodily functions effectively.