Formocortal

A synthetic corticosteroid used in medical treatments

Formocortal

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Chemical structure of Formocortal

Formocortal is a synthetic corticosteroid used primarily for its anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties. It is part of the glucocorticoid class of steroids, which are hormones that play a crucial role in the regulation of various physiological processes, including the immune response, metabolism, and stress response.

Pharmacology

Formocortal functions by binding to the glucocorticoid receptor, a type of nuclear receptor found in almost every cell in the body. Upon binding, it modulates the expression of specific genes that control inflammatory and immune responses. This action results in the suppression of cytokine production and inhibition of leukocyte infiltration at sites of inflammation.

Medical Uses

Formocortal is used in the treatment of a variety of conditions, including:

• Asthma
• Allergic rhinitis
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Dermatitis

Side Effects

Like other corticosteroids, Formocortal can cause a range of side effects, particularly with long-term use. These may include:

• Osteoporosis
• Hypertension
• Hyperglycemia
• Cushing's syndrome
• Immunosuppression

Mechanism of Action

Formocortal molecular structure

Formocortal exerts its effects by entering cells and binding to the glucocorticoid receptor in the cytoplasm. The receptor-steroid complex then translocates to the cell nucleus, where it binds to glucocorticoid response elements in the DNA, influencing the transcription of anti-inflammatory proteins and repressing the transcription of pro-inflammatory proteins.

Administration

Formocortal can be administered in various forms, including oral tablets, topical creams, and injectable solutions. The route of administration depends on the condition being treated and the desired speed of action.

Related pages

• Corticosteroid
• Glucocorticoid
• Anti-inflammatory
• Immunosuppressive drug