Which hydrocortisone administration practice should be questioned?

Hydrocortisone is a corticosteroid that mimics the natural hormone cortisol produced by the adrenal glands. For optimal therapeutic effect and to mimic the body's natural circadian rhythm of cortisol secretion, hydrocortisone should typically be administered in the morning. This timing aligns with the body's peak production of cortisol, which helps minimize potential side effects, such as adrenal suppression, that can occur when the hormone is taken at inappropriate times.

Taking hydrocortisone every evening at bedtime may disrupt the body’s natural hormonal rhythms and can lead to increased side effects or decreased efficacy of the medication. In contrast, the other practices, such as taking hydrocortisone with food to minimize gastrointestinal irritation and adjusting dosage only under healthcare supervision, are appropriate and adhere to good pharmacological practices. Thus, administering hydrocortisone at bedtime is a practice that should be questioned due to its potential to interfere with the medication's effectiveness and the body's natural cycles.