Hydrocortisone (also referred to as cortisol) is an endogenous glucocorticoid which is secreted by the adrenal gland. It is produced from the hypothalamus–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis. Hydrocortisone interacts with glucocorticoid receptors and regulates various signaling pathways. It is associated with the induction of energy mobilization, increase in cerebral perfusion rates and local glucose consumption. It is also linked with increase in cardiovascular output and respiration, redistribution of blood, delivery of molecules and energy to the brain and muscles and modulation of immune responses.

Primary glucocorticoid secreted by the adrenal cortex. It has three times the anti-inflammatory potency of corticosterone but much lower Na²⁺retention potency.