Glandular

Adrenal Cortex Extract

Also known as: ACE, Adrenal glandular, Bovine adrenal

Evidence

Glandular extract from animal adrenals used for adrenal fatigue support, though evidence is limited.

Last reviewed June 2026 · Evidence graded from peer-reviewed research, not editorial opinion. Educational only — not medical advice.

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The highest-scored Adrenal Cortex Extract product in our catalog (82/100). Track dose and overlaps in the app.

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Every Adrenal Cortex Extract product we have scored

#	Product	Score	Per serving
1	Pure Encapsulations ADR Formula	82 A-	$0.77
2	Pure Encapsulations Adrenal	80 A-	$0.72
3	Thorne Adrenal Cortex	78 B+	$0.33

Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing. Per-serving cost is list price divided by servings per container. No brand pays to be listed or ranked.

Common questions

How much Adrenal Cortex Extract should I take?

The typical range is 50-200mg 1-3x daily. Short-term support while addressing root causes

When should I take Adrenal Cortex Extract?

Morning and early afternoon. Either way.

Which form of Adrenal Cortex Extract is best?

Capsules — Freeze-dried preferred. Other forms in the catalog: Tablets.

Is Adrenal Cortex Extract safe?

Commonly reported: Overstimulation, Insomnia, Anxiety. Serious warnings: 'Adrenal fatigue' not a recognized diagnosis, May contain hormones, Quality concerns. Unknown

Which Adrenal Cortex Extract supplement scores highest?

Pure Encapsulations ADR Formula, at 82/100. Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing — no brand pays to be listed or ranked.

Primary uses

Adrenal fatigue (controversial)
Stress support
Cortisol support

How it works

Provides adrenal tissue factors
Traditional glandular therapy
'Adrenal fatigue' not a medical diagnosis
May provide peptides and nutrients

Dosage

Typical range: 50-200mg 1-3x daily
Timing: Morning and early afternoon
With food: Either way
Duration: Short-term support while addressing root causes
Special populations: Those with chronic fatigue attributed to stress

Forms

Capsules
Tablets

Safety

Common side effects

Overstimulation
Insomnia
Anxiety

Contraindications

Adrenal conditions (Addison's, Cushing's)
Autoimmune conditions

Products containing Adrenal Cortex Extract

Top-scoring supplements in our catalog that list Adrenal Cortex Extract on the label. Each product is graded on Formulate's ingredient-level rubric — dose accuracy, form, transparency, and third-party testing.

Pure Encapsulations

Pure Encapsulations

Thorne

Evidence notes

Limited evidence, 'adrenal fatigue' not recognized by conventional medicine

Grade D: Primarily pre-clinical or anecdotal; human efficacy not established.

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Medical disclaimer. This page is educational and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider. Individual needs and risks vary — consult a professional before starting, stopping, or combining supplements, especially if you are pregnant or nursing, taking medication, or managing a health condition.