hydrocortisone

(biochemistry, steroids, pharmacology) A glucocorticoid steroid hormone C₂₁H₃₀O₅ produced by the adrenal cortex upon stimulation by ACTH that mediates various metabolic processes (such as gluconeogenesis), has anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties, and whose levels in the blood may become elevated in response to physical or psychological stress. It is used medicinally to treat inflammation resulting from eczema and rheumatism.