Hydrocortisone

Hydrocortisone is a steroid hormone or glucocorticoid produced by the adrenal gland. It is released in response to stress, and to a low level of blood glucocorticoids. Its primary functions are to increase blood sugar through gluconeogenesis, suppress the immune system, and aid in fat, protein, and carbohydrate metabolism. It also decreases bone formation. Various synthetic forms of cortisol are used to treat a variety of different illnesses.