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cortisone vs. cortisol

cortisone vs. cortisol: What's the difference?

Cortisone (C21H28O5) is a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal cortex that is active in carbohydrate and protein metabolism. Cortisone can also refer to a commercial form of this compound. Cortisol (C21H30O5) is any of several steroid hormones in the adrenal cortex that resembles cortisone in its action. Also called hydrocortisone, it is a powerful anti-inflammatory drug.

cortisone

[ kawr-tuh-zohn, -sohn ]
noun
  1. a steroid hormone of the adrenal cortex, C21H28O5, active in carbohydrate and protein metabolism.
  2. a commercial form of this compound, obtained by extraction from the adrenal glands of certain domesticated animals or produced synthetically, used chiefly in the treatment of arthritis, rheumatic fever, certain allergies, and other systemic conditions.

cortisol

[ kawr-tuh-sawl, -sohl ]
noun
  1. one of several steroid hormones produced by the adrenal cortex and resembling cortisone in its action.
  2. hydrocortisone.

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