Endocrine system systemic corticosteroids

The class of drug that undoubtedly has the most effect on the various endocrine systems is the corticosteroids (glucocorticoids). 

Other endocrine. systems are interrelated. Both corticosteroids and thyroid hormones may increa.se the requirement for pyridoxine and affect pyridoxal S-phosphate-dependent metabolic processe.s. Moreover, there appear to be associations between vitamin B(, and anterior pituitary hormones that seem to involve the hypothalamu.s. S-hydroxytiypta-mine. and dopamine. The latter two neurotransmitters are synthc.sizcd by metabolic procetises that require pyridoxal S-phosphate. 

Agents that inhibit steps in the steroidogenic pathway and thus alter the biosynthesis of adrenocortical steroids are discussed, as are synthetic steroids that inhibit glucocorticoid action. The effects of corticosteroids are numerous and widespread, and include alterations in carbohydrate, protein, and lipid metabolism maintenance of fluid and electrolyte balance and preservation of normal function of the cardiovascular system, the immune system, the kidney, skeletal muscle, the endocrine system, and the nervous system. 

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