From the FDA Drug Label
CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY Glucocorticoids, naturally occurring and synthetic, are adrenocortical steroids that are readily absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Naturally occurring glucocorticoids (hydrocortisone and cortisone), which also have salt-retaining properties, are used as replacement therapy in adrenocortical deficiency states The naturally occurring steroid drugs mentioned are:
- Hydrocortisone
- Cortisone 1
From the Research
Naturally occurring steroid drugs are compounds produced by the human body or found in plants that have a steroid structure and medicinal properties, with the most common ones being cortisol, aldosterone, estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone, as well as plant-derived steroid drugs like digoxin and diosgenin. These natural steroids play crucial roles in regulating various bodily functions, including metabolism, immune response, and reproductive processes. The body maintains delicate balances of these compounds, and disruptions can lead to various medical conditions requiring supplementation or regulation of these natural steroid hormones.
Key Points
- Naturally occurring steroids in humans include cortisol, aldosterone, estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone, which have various functions such as regulating metabolism, immune response, and reproductive processes 2, 3.
- Plant-derived steroid drugs include cardiac glycosides like digoxin, which treats heart failure and arrhythmias, and diosgenin from wild yams, used as a precursor for synthesizing hormonal medications 4, 5.
- These natural steroids work by binding to specific receptors in cells, altering gene expression and cellular function, and often have more balanced effects with potentially fewer side effects compared to synthetic steroids 6.
- Disruptions in the balance of natural steroid hormones can lead to medical conditions such as adrenal insufficiency, which may require supplementation or regulation of these hormones 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
Considerations
- The use of natural steroid hormones requires careful dosing and monitoring for therapeutic use to avoid potential side effects and ensure effective treatment.
- The body's delicate balance of natural steroid hormones must be maintained to prevent disruptions that can lead to various medical conditions.
- Plant-derived steroid drugs can be used as alternatives to synthetic steroids, offering potentially fewer side effects and more balanced effects.