Hydrocortisone: What is it?
Hydrocortisone is a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal cortex and synthesized for medical use. It has anti-inflammatory, glucocorticoid, and sodium-retaining (mineralocorticoid) properties. It is used clinically to reduce the pain and inflammation of various conditions, including rashes, hemorrhoids, arthritis, and inflammatory bowel disease. It is also used as a steroid replacement therapy in patients with adrenal insufficiency.