Which of the following is a corticosteroid?

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Corticosteroids are synthetic glucocorticoids that mimic cortisol and have strong anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects. Prednisone is a classic example because it’s a synthetic corticosteroid used to reduce inflammation and dampen immune responses. It works by entering cells and binding the glucocorticoid receptor, which then alters gene transcription to increase anti-inflammatory proteins and decrease pro-inflammatory cytokines and mediators. This mechanism underpins its use in conditions like asthma, allergies, and autoimmune diseases. The other substances aren’t corticosteroids: metoprolol is a beta-blocker, lisinopril is an ACE inhibitor, and codeine is an opioid analgesic.