hydrocortisone
Americannoun
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Biochemistry. a steroid hormone, C 21 H 30 O 5 , of the adrenal cortex, active in carbohydrate and protein metabolism.
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Also called cortisol. Pharmacology. a powerful anti-inflammatory drug, C 21 H 30 O 5 , used in the treatment of shock, allergies, certain forms of arthritis, and other conditions.
noun
Etymology
Origin of hydrocortisone
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
They range from mild over-the-counter hydrocortisone to more potent versions available only on prescription.
From BBC ● Apr. 10, 2026
Adrenal insufficiency, also known as Addison’s disease, was a fatal condition until hydrocortisone was invented in the 1930s.
From Slate ● Sep. 9, 2025
The new 'Pulsatility' therapy, the culmination of ten years research by the Bristol team, is designed to deliver standard hydrocortisone replacement to patients via a pump which replicates more closely cortisol's natural rhythmic secretion pattern.
From Science Daily ● Oct. 20, 2023
You can use calamine lotion or over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream to reduce or alleviate the itch.
From Los Angeles Times ● May 24, 2023
“We just give them hydrocortisone and some time away from the storm,” said Saif Ali on a recent day, the beds in his emergency room still sandy from the feet of his patients.
From Washington Post ● Aug. 7, 2022
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