Two main classes of corticosteroids, glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids, are involved in a wide range of physiological processes, including stress response, immune response, and regulation of inflammation, carbohydrate metabolism, protein catabolism, blood electrolyte levels, and behavior.

Side Effects Contraindications Discontinuation of Treatment Corticosteroids are used to treat inflammation in various inflammatory, respiratory, and autoimmune disorders . Also called glucocorticoids or just “steroids,” they mimic a hormone called cortisol that the body produces at times of stress.