Pharmacology · Class
Corticosteroids (glucocorticoids) !
Synthetic versions of cortisol. They calm inflammation and the immune system and replace the hormone when the adrenal glands fail.
Updated 2026-11-01
What they are
Steroids that act on the glucocorticoid receptor. They are used for replacement in adrenal insufficiency and, at higher doses, to suppress inflammation and immunity in asthma, rheumatic, skin, bowel and blood diseases, transplants and some cancers. They differ in potency, duration and salt-retaining (mineralocorticoid) effect.
Mechanism of action
They cross the cell membrane and bind the cytoplasmic glucocorticoid receptor. The complex enters the nucleus, switches on anti-inflammatory genes and represses pro-inflammatory transcription factors such as NF-κB and AP-1. Cytokines, prostaglandins and leukotrienes fall, and immune cells are redistributed and less active.
Target: Glucocorticoid receptor (NR3C1); fludrocortisone mainly the mineralocorticoid receptor
Drugs in this class
- HydrocortisoneThe pharmaceutical form of cortisol, the body's own stress hormone. It is the replacement of choice when the adrenal…Glucocorticoid receptor (GR), a nuclear receptor
- PrednisoneAn oral corticosteroid prodrug: the liver turns it into prednisolone. Widely used for asthma, rheumatic and autoimmune…Glucocorticoid receptor (GR), a nuclear receptor
- PrednisoloneThe active form of prednisone. It does not need liver activation and comes as liquids for children and as eye drops.Glucocorticoid receptor (GR), a nuclear receptor
- MethylprednisoloneAn intermediate-acting corticosteroid given by mouth or as high-dose IV «pulses» for severe flares such as multiple…Glucocorticoid receptor (GR), a nuclear receptor
- DexamethasoneA potent, long-acting corticosteroid with almost no salt retention, used for severe inflammation, brain oedema and…Glucocorticoid receptor (GR), a nuclear receptor
- BetamethasoneA potent, long-acting corticosteroid. Given to the mother before a preterm birth, it helps the baby's lungs mature.Glucocorticoid receptor (GR), a nuclear receptor
- FludrocortisoneA corticosteroid used for its strong salt-retaining (mineralocorticoid) effect, to replace aldosterone when the…Mineralocorticoid receptor (MR), a nuclear receptor
- ClobetasolA very potent corticosteroid cream or ointment for psoriasis and eczema. Used on small areas for short periods because…Glucocorticoid receptor (GR) in skin cells
- TriamcinoloneAn intermediate-acting corticosteroid best known as a depot injection into joints, muscle or skin lesions, and as…Glucocorticoid receptor (GR), a nuclear receptor
Others in the class
- Budesonide
- Fluticasone
- Beclometasone
- Mometasone
- Deflazacort
Test yourself
Think of the answer, then tap the question to see it.
Why can stopping a long course of prednisone abruptly be dangerous?
Exogenous steroid suppresses ACTH and the adrenal glands atrophy; without the drug the body cannot make enough cortisol, causing adrenal insufficiency.
Which corticosteroids have practically no mineralocorticoid (salt-retaining) effect?
Dexamethasone and betamethasone. Hydrocortisone has some, and fludrocortisone is used precisely for its strong mineralocorticoid effect.
Which nuclear transcription factors do glucocorticoids repress to reduce inflammation?
NF-κB and AP-1, which drive the genes for cytokines, COX-2 and adhesion molecules.
What are three adverse effects of long-term systemic corticosteroids?
Any three of: hyperglycaemia, osteoporosis, cataract, glaucoma, myopathy, infections, peptic ulcer, weight gain with central fat, mood changes.
Educational content on how drugs work; not a prescribing guide and no substitute for a health professional's advice. No doses are given.
Sources: Prednisone: MedlinePlus Drug Information (MedlinePlus (U.S. National Library of Medicine), 2024); DailyMed - DEXAMETHASONE tablet (DailyMed (U.S. National Library of Medicine), 2026); Farmacología básica y clínica (Katzung), 16.ª ed., cap. 39 (McGraw Hill, 2025); eEML - Electronic Essential Medicines List (World Health Organization, 2025).
Spotted a mistake?We are always improving for the community. Tell us what is wrong and our team will review it.Report a mistake
Representative model, for educational purposes only.