Corticosteroid

Any of the steroid hormones produced by the adrenal cortex or their synthetic equivalents. They are involved in a wide range of physiologic systems such as stress response, immune response and regulation of inflammation, carbohydrate metabolism, protein catabolism, blood electrolyte levels, and behavior.


Any steroid hormone synthesized by the adrenal cortex. There are two main groups of corticosteroids. The glucocorticoids (hydrocortisone (Cortisol), cortisone, and corticosterone) are essential for the utilization of carbohydrate, fat, and protein by the body and for a normal response to stress. Naturally occurring and synthetic glucocorticoids have very powerful anti-inflammatory effects and are used to treat conditions involving inflammation. The mineralocorticoids (e.g. aldosterone) are necessary for the regulation of salt and water balance.


Hormones that have antitumor activity in lymphomas and lymphoid leukemias; in addition, corticosteroids (steroids) may be used for hormone replacement and for the management of some of the complications of cancer and its treatment.


Any steroid hormone produced by the cortex of the adrenal glands.


A drug which reduces inflammation, used in asthma, gastro-intestinal disease and in adrenocortical insufficiency.


Any of a group of hormones, including cortisol and corticosterone and other glucocorticoids as well as mineralocorticoids, produced in the adrenal cortex and important for the metabolism of carbohydrates and proteins, for water and salt balance, and for the function of the cardiovascular system, the kidneys, and other organs. These hormones are also produced synthetically, for use as drugs in the treatment of a very large variety of diseases, including deficiency of natural adrenal production and many inflammatory conditions (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis). Large doses and/or prolonged use of the drugs is associated with many side effects, including increased susceptibility to infection, fluid retention, emotional changes, and peptic ulcer.


Steroids produced by the adrenal glands in response to the release of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) by the pituitary gland. Corticosteroids are used for hormonal replacement therapy if the body does not produce sufficient amounts naturally; for suppression of ACTH secretion by the pituitary gland; to suppress the immune response; and as anticancer, antiallergy, and anti-inflammatory agents.


The generic term for the group of hormones produced by the adrenal glands, with a profound effect on mineral and glucose metabolism.


Any of several steroid hormones secreted by the cortex of the adrenal gland or manufactured synthetically for use as a drug. They are classified according to their biological activity as glucocorticoids, mineralocorticoids, and androgens. Adrenal corticosteroids do not initiate cellular and enzymatic activity but permit many biochemical reactions to proceed at optimal rates.


Any of the natural or synthetic hormones associated with the adrenal cortex (which influences or controls many body processes). Corticosteroids include glucocorticoids, which have an anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive role in the treatment of MS exacerbations.


Any one of the hormones made in the outer layer of the adrenal gland that influence or control key functions of the body, such as making carbohydrates and proteins.


 


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