corticosteroid

noun

cor·​ti·​co·​ste·​roid

ˌkȯr-ti-kō-ˈster-ˌȯid,

-ˈstir- 

: any of various steroid hormones (such as cortisol, cortisone, or aldosterone) that are produced by the adrenal cortex (see cortex sense 1(a)1) from cholesterol

also : any of various synthetic derivatives (such as prednisone or dexamethasone) of these steroid hormones that are used as drugs

Note: Corticosteroids are classified according to their physiological activity as glucocorticoids, which chiefly regulate carbohydrate, protein, and fat metabolism, and mineralocorticoids, which chiefly regulate electrolyte and fluid balance in the body. Androgens (such as androstenedione) are also produced by the adrenal cortex and are sometimes classified as corticosteroids.

Examples of corticosteroid in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Treatments such as corticosteroids or immunotherapy help reduce immune attacks on hair follicles, sometimes allowing hair to regrow. —Sarah Jividen, Verywell Health, 16 Dec. 2024

The Cleveland Clinic states that spondylolisthesis can typically be managed with rest, over-the-counter medications, corticosteroids, physical therapy or wearing a brace. —Vanessa Etienne, People.com, 13 Dec. 2024

These include corticosteroids, antipsychotics, and some antidepressants. —Sarah Jividen, Health, 5 Dec. 2024

Certain medical conditions like diabetes or medications like corticosteroids can also weaken your immune system. —Amelia MacIntyre, Verywell Health, 3 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1944, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

corticosteroid

noun

cor·​ti·​co·​ste·​roid

ˌkȯrt-i-kō-ˈsti(ə)r-ˌȯid also -ˈste(ə)r-

: any of various adrenal-cortex steroids (as corticosterone, cortisone, and aldosterone) that are divided on the basis of their major biological activity into glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids