The present invention relates to the formulations, methods and kits for reducing cytokine interleukin-17 (IL-17 or IL-17A) levels in both broncheoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and blood/serum and/or for the inhibition of p38 mitogen activating protein kinase (MAPK) activity involving the use of 17α-hydroxyprogesterone caproate (17-OHPC) or derivatives thereof. The formulation may be in the form of an inhalant containing effective amounts of 17-OHPC, and the formulation may be used in a method to treat IL-17 cytokine and/or p38 MAPK mediated auto-immune and auto-inflammatory diseases. Such diseases may include glucocorticoid (GC) insensitive related diseases or conditions. In alternate embodiment, the formulation may include the combined use of budesonide (BUD) with 17-OPHC.