hydrocortisone

American  

[hahy-druh-kawr-tuh-zohn, -sohn] / ˌhaɪ drəˈkɔr təˌzoʊn, -ˌsoʊn /

noun

1. Biochemistry. a steroid hormone, C 21 H 30 O 5 , of the adrenal cortex, active in carbohydrate and protein metabolism.

2. 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.

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hydrocortisone British  

/ ˌhaɪdrəʊˈkɔːtɪˌzəʊn /

noun

1. Also called: cortisol.  the principal glucocorticoid secreted by the adrenal cortex; 17-hydroxycorticosterone. The synthesized form is used mainly in treating rheumatic, allergic, and inflammatory disorders. Formula: C 21 H 30 O 5

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hydrocortisone Scientific  

/ hī′drə-kôr′tĭ-sōn′,-zōn′ /

1. A preparation of the hormone cortisol that is obtained naturally or produced synthetically and is used widely in the treatment of inflammatory conditions and allergies.

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Etymology

Origin of hydrocortisone

First recorded in 1950–55; hydro- ² + cortisone

Example Sentences

They range from mild over-the-counter hydrocortisone to more potent versions available only on prescription.

From BBC • Apr. 10, 2026

“I tried my best to do traditional acupuncture, physical therapy and hydrocortisone shots in my spine and everything,” she said.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 4, 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

“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