Washington State Veterinary Medication Clerk Practice Test

Steroids are a class of lipid-soluble hormones, and in veterinary practice the term usually refers to corticosteroids. These steroids are produced by the adrenal cortex and act as hormones that regulate inflammation and immune responses. They work by entering cells and binding glucocorticoid receptors, which changes gene expression to broadly suppress inflammatory pathways and immune activity. Because of these strong anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects, steroids are commonly used to treat allergies, dermatitis, asthma, autoimmune diseases, and other inflammatory conditions. They’re not gastric protectants (which protect the stomach lining), not treatments for incontinence, and not muscle relaxants, which is why the hormone description is the best fit.