ABSTRACT
Learning objectives ■ Glucocorticoids ■ Normal control of cortisol synthesis and release from the adrenal cortex ■ Anti-infl ammatory actions of synthetic
glucocorticoids ■ Mechanism of action of glucocorticoids ■ Examples of infl ammatory and autoimmune disorders treated with glucocorticoids ■ Medical
use of glucocorticoids
Learning objectives Know the names of the three principal natural glucocorticoids given. ■ Be able to describe briefl y the normal control of cortisol synthesis and ■ release. Be able to summarise the anti-infl ammatory actions of glucocorticoids. ■ Be aware of the adverse effects associated with prolonged use of high dose ■ glucocorticoids. Know that withdrawal from prolonged-use glucocorticoid therapy must ■ be gradual and why.
