A group of CORTICOSTEROIDS that affect carbohydrate metabolism (gluconeogenesis, liver glycogen deposition, elevation of BLOOD SUGAR), inhibit adrenocorticotropic hormone secretion, and possess pronounced anti-inflammatory activity. They also play a role in fat and protein metabolism, maintenance of arterial blood pressure, alteration of the connective tissue response to injury, reduction in the number of circulating lymphocytes, and functioning of the central nervous system.