cortisone A hormone produced by the cortex of the adrenal glands and essential for carbohydrate, protein, and fat metabolism, kidney function, and disease resistance. Synthetic cortisone is used to treat adrenal insuficiency, rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory diseases, rheumatoid fever, asthma, severe allergies, and skin complaints. A potent, versatile drug, it can have unwanted side-effects such as body swelling. Cortisone is a corticosteroid. Related categories • BIOCHEMISTRY • HEALTH AND DISEASE Also on this site: Encyclopedia of Alternative Energy & Sustainable Living Encyclopedia of History Transport Concepts & Designs (partner site) |