Cortisol

Cortisol is a hormone that is essential for the human body. It is formed in the organism itself and functions mainly as a so-called stress hormone. Since it also has an effect on the immune system, it is used in medicine as an anti-inflammatory, among other things.

What is cortisol?

Cortisol, also known by the name Hydrocortisone, is an endogenous hormone that is vital for the human and animal organism.

It is formed in the adrenal cortex. Cortisol is particularly known as a stress hormone. In addition, it influences numerous processes in the body, such as blood sugar, lipid metabolism and the immune system. The cortisol level in the body varies and depends, for example, on the times of day.

It is generally highest in the early morning and reaches its lowest point around midnight. Certain living conditions, such as a high level of stress or pregnancy, can have a significant influence on cortisol levels, as can various diseases.

Pharmacological effect

Has in the body Cortisol numerous important tasks. For this reason, it has to be artificially supplied to the organism if it is not able to produce it in sufficient quantity itself.

Among other things, the hormone is involved in regulating the carbohydrate balance with the help of various processes in the liver. The fat metabolism - especially the promotion of adrenaline and noradrenaline - needs cortisol for the optimal flow of all processes, as does the body's general protein turnover. In addition, it can increase blood sugar levels.

In the intestines and kidneys, the hormone is converted into cortisone, a related steroid hormone, with the help of oxygen. Cortisol also has a direct influence on the immune system. It can act on the distribution of blood cells and also suppress the immune system, which makes it very useful in medicine as an anti-inflammatory. First and foremost, cortisol is known as a stress hormone.

Together with the so-called catecholamines, which include adrenaline and dopamine, the cortisol level increases significantly in stressful situations and thus enables appropriate reactions. However, cortisol itself acts more slowly than the catecholamines and thus qualifies as a helper in gene expression: Here it is involved in the synthesis of proteins from genetic information.

Medical application & use

In medicine it will Cortisol used for numerous purposes due to its versatility. The synthetic form used for this, which is contained in various drugs, is called hydrocortisone.

In high doses it has an immunosuppressive effect, i.e. H. suppressing the immune system. It is used in this regard to prevent strong reactions of the immune system, as it can be necessary with some diseases. The development of inflammation can also be avoided in this way. Cortisol or hydrocortisone can be administered internally as well as externally.

The former occurs, for example, in asthma, chronic bronchitis or rheumatic diseases. The anti-inflammatory effect can significantly alleviate the symptoms. The intake of cortisol or hydrocortisone takes place either orally or intravenously, depending on the clinical picture and the individual case.

External application in the form of ointments or tinctures occurs, for example, in the case of neurodermatitis, allergic reactions or other inflammatory skin diseases. Usually symptoms such as itching, rash, pain or redness can be quickly relieved with the help of the medication.

Risks & side effects

Cortisol or the synthetic hydrocortisone administered in medicine offers numerous positive effects in various clinical pictures.

However, the hormone also has some side effects that should not be underestimated. For example, taking higher doses for a longer period of time can lead to weight gain, water retention or disturbances in blood sugar levels. Osteoporosis is also quite common as a later consequence of concentrated administration of cortisol / hydrocortisone. If the hormone is administered externally, the skin can become thinner in the long run and thus generally more susceptible to infections.

Furthermore, cortisol / hydrocortisone must not be discontinued abruptly after therapy, as this can trigger a so-called rebound reaction (a renewed violent occurrence of the previous symptoms). Experts speak of a necessary "tapering off" treatment.