Continuous Infusion Versus Intermittent Bolus Hydrocortisone in Septic Shock

Septic shock is a life-threatening condition in which infection causes dangerously low blood pressure and organ dysfunction despite fluid resuscitation and vasopressor treatment. Hydrocortisone is commonly used in patients with septic shock who continue to require vasopressors. However, it is uncertain whether hydrocortisone should be administered as a continuous intravenous infusion or as intermittent intravenous bolus doses. This randomized controlled trial evaluates whether continuous intravenous hydrocortisone infusion improves clinical outcomes compared with intermittent intravenous hydrocortisone boluses in adult patients with septic shock. Participants receive either hydrocortisone 200 mg/day by continuous infusion or hydrocortisone 50 mg intravenously every 6 hours, in addition to standard septic shock management. The study evaluates 28-day mortality, recovery from shock, duration of vasopressor therapy, mechanical ventilation duration, intensive care unit stay, hospital stay, inflammatory markers, and organ dysfunction scores.