Steroid

From Health Encyclopedia

Contents 1 See for 2 Broader Terms 3 Narrower Terms 4 Related Terms 5 Scope Note 6 Facts

See for

halosteroid

Broader Terms

carbopolycyclic compound

Narrower Terms

androstane compound, cholanate compound, estratriene compound, oxysteroid, pregnane compound, steroid glycoside aglycone

Related Terms

lipid

Scope Note

compounds that contain a hydrogenated cyclopentanoperhydrophenanthrene ring system; they include cholesterol, numerous hormones, precursors of certain vitamins, bile acids, alcohols, and certain natural drugs and poisons.

Facts

• Steroids are molecules that contain a similar chemical core. Their natural function is to act as hormonal messengers in the body.
• They are usually hormones or constituents of cell membranes. Common steroids include estrogen, testosterone, cortisone, Vitamin D, and cholesterol.
• Synthetic versions are administered as drugs because of their ability to reduce inflammation and swelling.
• The medicines may come in pill and inhaled forms and are also called corticosteroids.

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