Glucocorticoids & Mineralocorticoids Pharmacology Quiz

Mechanism of Action of Old Glucocorticoids at Low Doses

• Old glucocorticoids primarily exert anti-inflammatory effects by binding to glucocorticoid receptors in the cytoplasm, leading to the transcription of anti-inflammatory proteins.
• At low doses, they modulate the immune response, reducing the activation and proliferation of inflammatory cells.

Common Side Effect of Fludrocortisone

• A commonly associated side effect of Fludrocortisone is hypertension due to its mineralocorticoid activity, which promotes sodium retention.

Primary Indication for New Inhaled Glucocorticoids

• New glucocorticoids used in an inhaled form are primarily indicated for the management of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) through their potent anti-inflammatory effects in the airways.

Contraindications for Fludrocortisone

• Fludrocortisone is not contraindicated in patients with adrenal insufficiency; it is often used to replace mineralocorticoids in such conditions.

Glucocorticoid with Antirheumatic Properties

• Prednisone is specifically noted for its antirheumatic properties, commonly prescribed for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.

Mechanism of Action of Old Glucocorticoids at High Doses

• At high doses, old glucocorticoids demonstrate significant immunosuppressive effects, inhibiting both the proliferation of lymphocytes and the production of various cytokines, thus controlling severe inflammatory responses.

Test your knowledge on the mechanisms of action, side effects, indications, and contraindications of glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids including agents like cortisone, prednisolone, dexamethasone, betamethasone, and hydrocortisone. Explore how these medications interact with glucocorticoid receptors and influence gene expression.