| glucocorticoid | <pharmacology> Corticosteroid substances (drugs or hormones) that are involved in carbohydrate metabolism by promoting gluconeogenesis and the formation of glycogen at the expense of lipid and protein synthesis. They are steroid based and possess anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties. Glucocorticoids are also produced normally by the adrenal cortex and provide for the response to stress. Examples include: prednisolone, methylprednisolone, hydrocortisone, betamethasone and dexamethasone. (29 Sep 1997) |
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| glucocorticoids | A group of corticosteroids that affect carbohydrate metabolism (gluconeogenesis, liver glycogen deposition, elevation of blood sugar), inhibit corticotropin secretion, and possess pronounced anti-inflammatory activity. They also play a role in fat and protein metabolism, maintenance of arterial blood pressure, alteration of the connective tissue response to injury, reduction in the number of circulating lymphocytes, and functioning of the central nervous system. (12 Dec 1998) |
| glucocorticoids, synthetic | <chemical> Synthetic chemical compounds which increase gluconeogenesis, raising the concentration of liver glycogen and blood sugar, but differ in structure from naturally occurring glucocorticoids. Pharmacological action: steroidal anti-inflammatory agents, topical anti-inflammatory agents. (12 Dec 1998) |
| glucocorticoids, topical | A class of corticosteroids that produces suppression of inflammatory diseases when applied as ointments, lotions, or other topical dosage forms. Penetration of the preparations may be increased by means of occlusive dressings. (12 Dec 1998) |
| receptors, glucocorticoid | Cytoplasmic proteins that specifically bind glucocorticoids and mediate their cellular effects. The glucocorticoid receptor-glucocorticoid complex acts in the nucleus to induce transcription of DNA. Glucocorticoids were named for their actions on blood glucose concentration, but they have equally important effects on protein and fat metabolism. Cortisol is the most important example. (12 Dec 1998) |
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| hormone, glucocorticoid | A hormone that predominantly affects the metabolism of carbohydrates and,to a lesser extent, fats and proteins (and has other effects). Glucocorticoids are made in the outside portion (the cortex) of the adrenal gland and chemically classed as steroids. Cortisol is the major natural glucocorticoid. The term glucocorticoid also applies to equivalent hormones synthesised in the laboratory. (12 Dec 1998) |