Final answer:
Cortisol is a hormone released in response to long-term stress. It is equivalent to prednisone, a medication used for inflammation and immune system disorders. Both cortisol and prednisone have anti-inflammatory properties and affect glucose metabolism.
Step-by-step explanation:
Cortisol is a corticosteroid hormone released by the adrenal cortex in response to long-term stress. It is equivalent to prednisone, a glucocorticoid medication used to manage inflammation and immune system disorders. Both cortisol and prednisone have anti-inflammatory properties and can affect glucose metabolism.