Final answer:
Glucocorticoids are corticosteroids used for their anti-inflammatory effects to treat various conditions like asthma, arthritis, and skin irritations. While they control symptoms effectively, they do not always treat the underlying cause and can suppress the immune system.
Step-by-step explanation:
Glucocorticoids are a group of corticosteroids that are vital for the body’s response to stress. They play essential roles in our metabolism and immune system, but are especially known for their anti-inflammatory properties. Medications containing glucocorticoids, such as cortisone injections, prednisone tablets, steroid-based inhalers, and hydrocortisone creams, leverage these properties to manage various medical conditions. These conditions include severe asthma, arthritis, and skin irritations like rashes and itching.
However, while glucocorticoids are effective at controlling symptoms, they may not treat the root cause of medical issues and can suppress the immune system, leading to increased susceptibility to infection.
Hydrocortisone is a synthetic form of cortisol, which is produced by the adrenal glands. When applied topically, it reduces inflammation by decreasing the secretion of histamine from cells of the immune system, which are responsible for the inflammatory response.
While the glucocorticoid cream treats symptoms such as itching and rashes by reducing local inflammation, it does not necessarily address the underlying cause of the condition.