Types of steroids in medicine
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers
Major Types of Steroids in Medicine
Steroids used in medicine are a diverse group of compounds, each with specific structures and biological functions. The main types include glucocorticoids, mineralocorticoids, androgens, estrogens, and progestogens. These categories are based on their physiological roles and chemical structures, and each type is used to treat different medical conditions 147.
Glucocorticoids: Anti-Inflammatory and Immunosuppressive Steroids
Glucocorticoids, such as hydrocortisone, dexamethasone, methylprednisolone, and prednisolone, are widely used for their strong anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects. They are essential in treating conditions like asthma, allergies, autoimmune diseases, and for managing inflammation in various tissues, including oral mucosal lesions 1478. Glucocorticoids are also critical in emergency medicine and intensive care settings.
Mineralocorticoids: Regulation of Salt and Water Balance
Mineralocorticoids, with aldosterone as the primary example, help regulate the body’s salt and water balance. These steroids are important in managing conditions like Addison’s disease and certain forms of low blood pressure 14.
Androgens and Anabolic Steroids: Male Hormones and Muscle Growth
Androgens, such as testosterone, are responsible for the development and maintenance of male characteristics. Anabolic steroids, which are synthetic derivatives of androgens, are sometimes used medically to treat muscle-wasting diseases and hormone deficiencies, but they are also known for their misuse in sports 147.
Estrogens and Progestogens: Female Hormones
Estrogens and progestogens are key female sex hormones. They are used in hormone replacement therapy, oral contraceptives, and to manage menopausal symptoms. These steroids also play roles in treating certain cancers and reproductive disorders 147.
Synthetic and Modified Steroids in Medicine
Steroidal Derivatives and Heterocyclic Steroids
Beyond naturally occurring steroids, many synthetic and modified steroids have been developed for specific therapeutic purposes. These include steroidal oximes, which show promise as anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiviral agents . Steroidal heterocyclic derivatives are being explored for their potential as enzyme inhibitors and cytotoxic drugs, especially in cancer therapy .
Ketosteroids and Novel Steroidal Compounds
Ketosteroids and other novel steroidal compounds, often derived from marine organisms, fungi, and plants, are being investigated for their unique biological activities. These include anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antimicrobial, and immunomodulatory effects, expanding the potential uses of steroids in medicine 23.
Clinical Applications and Recent Advances
Steroids remain a mainstay in the treatment of a wide range of diseases, including cancer, inflammation, asthma, and infections. Recent advances include the development of new delivery systems, such as nanoparticles and liposomal formulations, to improve safety and effectiveness. The repurposing of existing steroids, such as dexamethasone and hydrocortisone during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlights their ongoing importance in modern medicine .
Conclusion
Steroids in medicine encompass a broad spectrum of compounds, from naturally occurring hormones to synthetic derivatives. The main types—glucocorticoids, mineralocorticoids, androgens, estrogens, and progestogens—each serve distinct therapeutic roles. Ongoing research continues to expand the diversity and applications of steroidal drugs, making them essential tools in the treatment of many diseases 12345678.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic