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After entering cells, glucocorticoids bind cytosolic GRα and the complex moves into the nucleus, where it modulates transcription through glucocorticoid response elements. Increased anti-inflammatory proteins and reduced pro-inflammatory signaling contribute to their effects; rapid non-genomic actions can also occur. Glucocorticoids suppress inflammatory mediator pathways and alter immune-cell movement, while influencing glucose, protein, and fat metabolism. Their pharmacokinetics depend on route, protein binding, tissue distribution, hepatic activation or metabolism, and renal elimination of conjugated metabolites. Biological duration differs among short-, intermediate-, and long-acting agents. The lesson also considers first-pass metabolism of inhaled and intranasal forms, placental and renal enzyme activity, and how strong CYP3A4 inducers can reduce efficacy.