Cortisol
Cortisol is a hormone found in the human body. It is secreted by the adrenal cortex. Cortisol is classified as a glucocorticoid steroid hormone.
Secretion and Production
Cortisol is produced in and secreted from the adrenal cortex. It is synthesized from pregnenolone. Its synthesis is stimulated by the secretion of adrenocorticotropic hormone.
In normal release, cortisol has widespread actions which help restore homeostasis after stress. It acts as a physiological antagonist to insulin by promoting gluconeogenesis, breakdown of lipids and proteins, and mobilization of extrahepatic amino acids and ketone bodies. This leads to increased blood glucose concentrations, resulting in increased glycogen formation in the liver. It also increases blood pressure. Cortisol lowers the activity of the immune system in the blood. It reflects leukocyte redistribution to LNs, bone marrow, and skin.
Pharmacological Uses
Synthetic cortisol, also commonly referred to as hydrocortisone, is available in an injectable, oral, and skin cream form. As an injectable or oral form, it is used to treat cases of severe allergic reaction. The skin cream form of synthetic cortisol is used to treat rashes such as poison ivy or eczema.