The adrenal cortex of vertebrates produces a group of steroid hormones known as corticosteroids.
Corticosteroids play a role in a variety of physiological processes, such as the immune system, the stress response, the control of inflammation, etc.
Glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids are the two primary classes of corticosteroids.
here's a summary of the requested corticosteroids:
Classification | Example | Mechanism of Action | Uses | Side Effects |
Short-Acting Glucocorticoids | Cortisone, Hydrocortisone | These drugs work by decreasing inflammation and reducing the activity of the immune system | Treatment of conditions such as adrenal insufficiency, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, asthma, allergies, and many other inflammatory conditions | Weight gain, glucose intolerance, hypertension, mood swings, thinning of the skin |
Intermediate-Acting Glucocorticoids | Prednisolone | These drugs work by decreasing inflammation and reducing the activity of the immune system | Treatment of conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, severe psoriasis, severe asthma, ulcerative colitis, and Crohn's disease | Weight gain, glucose intolerance, hypertension, mood swings, thinning of the skin |
Long-Acting Glucocorticoids | Betamethasone, Dexamethasone | These drugs work by decreasing inflammation and reducing the activity of the immune system | Used in high doses to treat conditions like severe allergic reactions, inflammation, multiple sclerosis, lupus, and certain types of arthritis | Osteoporosis, weight gain, glucose intolerance, hypertension, mood swings, thinning of the skin, cataracts |
Note: Corticosteroids have potent anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties. However, long-term use of these drugs can lead to serious side effects like osteoporosis, hypertension, glucose intolerance, cataracts, and increased risk of infections. Therefore, they should be used judiciously and under the supervision of a healthcare provider.