What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
corticosteroid
Example
The doctor prescribed a corticosteroid cream for my eczema. [corticosteroid: noun]
Example
Corticosteroids can have side effects such as weight gain and mood changes. [corticosteroids: plural noun]
glucocorticoid
Example
The patient was given a glucocorticoid injection to reduce inflammation in the joint. [glucocorticoid: noun]
Example
Glucocorticoids are commonly used to treat asthma and allergic reactions. [glucocorticoids: plural noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Corticosteroid is a more common term than glucocorticoid in everyday language, as it refers to a broader class of steroid hormones. Glucocorticoid is more commonly used in medical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between corticosteroid and glucocorticoid?
Both corticosteroid and glucocorticoid are formal terms used in medical contexts.
