Steroid Structure Basics:
Core Structure:
Steroids share a common tetracyclic structure composed of three cyclohexane rings (A, B, C) and one cyclopentane ring (D), known as the steroid nucleus.
Functional Groups:
Variations in functional groups attached to the core structure differentiate steroid types.
Naming Conventions:
Prefixes and Suffixes:
-olone: Indicates a ketone group (e.g., Testosterone).
-ate: Ester forms used in prodrugs (e.g., Prednisone).
-olone vs. -ol: -ol denotes alcohol groups (e.g., Etonogestrel).
Classification-Based Names:
Glucocorticoids: e.g., Hydrocortisone
Mineralocorticoids: e.g., Fludrocortisone
Androgens: e.g., Dihydrotestosterone
Estrogens: e.g., Estradiol
Progestogens: e.g., Progesterone
Examples of Steroid Drugs:
Corticosteroids: Prednisone, Dexamethasone
Anabolic Steroids: Nandrolone, Oxandrolone