Hydrocortisone (Cortisol) is a glucocorticoid hormone secreted by the adrenocortex. Hydrocortisone agonizes the glucocorticoid receptor, which promotes proteolytic metabolism, gluconeogenesis, capillary wall stabilization, and renal calcium excretion, as well as suppressing immune and inflammatory responses.

Hydrocortisone acetate (Cortisol 21-acetate) is the synthetic acetate salt form of hydrocortisone, a corticosteroid with anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties.

5β-Dihydrocortisone, a sterol metabolite derived from cortisone, is produced in the liver through the action of 5β-reductase (AKR1D1).

Tetrahydrocortisone, a stress-induced hormone and a urinary metabolite of Cortisone, originates from the reduction of Cortisone facilitated by 5-reductase.