Viral pneumonia primarily appears as acute interstitial pneumonia. Some cases develop to acute respiratory distress syndrome. Thus, it is often necessary to apply glucocorticoids (hormones) to decrease the inflammatory response and alleviate the situation. However, there is no clear basis for the indications and timing of rational use of hormones as well as hormone type, dosage, administration time, course of treatment, and evaluation of efficacy and negative effects. This article analyzes and summaries the use of the hormones in viral pneumonia mainly based on biological and physiological studies. It wishes to provide a better reference for clinical practice.