The adrenal cortex secrets steroid hormones which have glucocorticoid,mineralocorticoid an weekly androgenic activities.

Glucocorticoids effects on carbohydrates, proteins and fats metabolism. Mineralocorticoids effects on sodium, potassium and fluid balance. Mineralocorticoid actions Sodium reabsrobtion in distal convoluted tubule in kidney associated with increase of H+ and K+ secretion. Cation transport exerted on other tissues.The main adverse effects include fluid retention dn hypertension. Glucocrticoid actions Carbohydrate protein metabolism,fat metabolism,calcium metabolism,water excretion, restricts capillary permeability maintains stone of arterioles and myocardial contractility. They are needed for normal muscular activity,impair immunological competency. Mechanism of action Corticosteroids penetrates the cells,binds to high affinity cytoplasmic receptor proteins, change occurs in steroid receptor complex leading to transcription of specific mRNA,regulation of protein synthesis.