What is the primary use of corticosteroids in medical practice?

Corticosteroids are primarily used in medical practice for their ability to suppress inflammation. They are potent anti-inflammatory agents that work by reducing the activity of the immune system and decreasing the production of inflammatory cytokines. This makes them effective in treating a variety of inflammatory and autoimmune conditions, such as asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, and certain skin disorders.

While corticosteroids can have effects on metabolism and may influence blood sugar levels, their primary indication is not to boost metabolism or regulate blood sugar, but rather to address inflammatory responses. Enhancing muscle growth is also not a primary function of corticosteroids; in fact, anabolic steroids, which are a different class of steroids, are specifically used for this purpose. Thus, the correct answer highlights the key therapeutic role of corticosteroids in managing inflammation.