Glucocorticoid pharmacokinetics

Glucocorticoids, administered topically or systemically, form the cornersto ne of asthma therapy Delivered systemically, they serve as a major componen t of rescue therapy for acute asthma exacerbation. They also serve as chron ic supplemental therapy in those patients with severe persistent asthma. In haled glucocorticoids are now the preferred controller medication for all b ut the patients with the mildest asthma. This article provides a broad over view of the structure, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of systemical ly administered and inhaled glucocorticoids.