How are synthetic corticosteroids used to treat inflammatory diseases?

Synthetic corticosteroids, which are potent derivatives of the natural hormone cortisol, are widely used to treat inflammatory and autoimmune diseases due to their powerful anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties.123

These compounds, known as glucocorticoids, function at the cellular level by inhibiting the production and action of inflammatory cytokines. They also reduce the synthesis of proteins that mediate inflammatory responses and inhibit enzymes like phospholipase A2, which are essential for producing inflammatory mediators such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes. By suppressing the immune system, they reduce cell-mediated immune reactions and antibody production, making them effective for conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, asthma, and lupus erythematosus, as well as for preventing transplant rejection.132

Common synthetic variants include prednisone, dexamethasone, and methylprednisolone. While highly effective, these medications carry risks of serious side effects with long-term use, such as osteoporosis, increased susceptibility to infection, and metabolic changes.123