Cortisol is a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands and is synthesized from cholesterol. Cortisol releases glucose and amino acids for cellular energy and is also associated with the fight-or-flight response, which primes the body for an instant physical response to danger or alarm. Cortisol also affects numerous physiological functions such as regulation of the immune system, glucose counter-regulation and bone metabolism. Antisteroid drugs, such as mitotane, cytadren, and metryrapone directly affect the synthesis or binding of cortisol to its receptors.
Cytadren
Cytadren is an anti-steroid drug used to inhibit the production of cortisol from cholesterol. Cytadren inhibits the enzymatic conversion of cholesterol to pregnenolone, the first step in the biosynthesis of cortisol. Cytadren acts on the adrenal cortex and affects the production of steroids such as cortisol, glucocorticoids and estrogen. According to Drugs.com, cytadren is medically prescribed for the treatment of estrogen-dependent breast cancer as well as Cushing's syndrome, conditions in which the body overproduces cortisol.
Mitotane
Mitotane is cytotoxic drug used to alter the peripheral metabolism of cortisol. Mitotane inhibits the cells of the adrenal tissue, resulting in a reduction in the amount of cortisone-like hormones produced. While the exact mechanism of action is unknown, according the Medical-look.com, mitotane modifies the peripheral metabolism of cortisol and directly suppresses the adrenal cortex.
Metyrapone
Metyrapone is a drug used in the diagnosis of certain adrenal problems. Metyrapone blocks the synthesis of cortisol which actually causes the pituitary gland to increase its production of corticotrophin. Corticotrophin in turn causes the body to produce other chemicals that are measured in the urine to determine how well the pituitary glands are working.
