Nomenclature of Steroid Drugs

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.

Nomenclature of Steroid Drugs

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