Endocrine drugs

Endocrine drugs

• 2.
   Endocrine glandsrelease hormones (chemicals) into the blood and include the thyroid, pancreas, pituitary, ovaries and testes.  Disorders of the endocrine system and metabolism, such as diabetes mellitus and hypothyroidism, may have wide-ranging, serious effects, and in some cases may be fatal if left untreated.
• 4.
   Corticosteroids, whichare synthetic hormones that are chiefly used to treat inflammation in a variety of disorders and may also be used as hormone replacement therapy.  Topical corticosteroids, which are used to treat certain skin disorders.
• 5.
   Corticosteroids arerelated to corticosteroid hormones produced by the body. The production of corticosteroid hormones by the adrenal glands is regulated by corticotropin, a pituitary hormone.
• 6.
   Corticosteroids affectmany body processes, including virtually all aspects of the inflammatory process. Their exact mechanism of action is unknown, but one of their effects is to reduce the production of prostaglandins, substances that play a key role in triggering inflammation. Corticosteroids also suppress the immune system by reducing the production and effectiveness of certain white blood cells that are an important part of the body’s immune response.
• 7.
   The drugsmay be injected directly into body tissues near inflamed areas such as tendons and joints.  Topical corticosteroids in the form of creams and ointments are used to reduce inflammation and itching in some skin conditions.  Oral corticosteroids are used for severe rheumatoid arthritis and respiratory disorders such as asthma, sarcoidosis, and fibrosing alveolitis.