Cortisone

Cortisone is a corticosteroid hormone (glucocorticoid) used to decrease the body's natural defensive response and reduce symptoms such as swelling and allergic-type reactions. It is commonly used to treat a variety of conditions, including arthritis, blood/hormone/immune system disorders, allergic reactions, certain skin and eye conditions, breathing problems, and certain cancers[3]. Cortisone can be administered in various forms, including orally, intravenously, intra-articularly (into a joint), or transcutaneously[2].

Cortisone tablets should be taken by mouth with food or milk to prevent stomach upset, and it is recommended to take them in the morning if they are prescribed once a day[1]. It is important not to stop taking cortisone suddenly because this can lead to severe reactions, and the dose may need to be gradually lowered over time to avoid side effects[1].

Side effects of oral cortisone can include stomach upset, headache, dizziness, menstrual changes, trouble sleeping, increased appetite, or weight gain. Serious side effects may include bone/joint pain, easy bruising/bleeding, increased thirst/urination, mental/mood changes, muscle pain, ongoing weight gain, puffy face, slow wound healing, seizures, signs of infection, swelling of the ankles/feet, thinning skin, unusual hair growth, unusual skin growths, and vision changes[3]. Long-term use of cortisone can lead to thinning skin, easy bruising, changes in body fat, and increased risk of infections[5].

Cortisone injections can provide short-term pain relief and reduce swelling from inflammation of a joint, tendon, or bursa. They are also used by dermatologists to treat keloids, relieve symptoms of eczema and atopic dermatitis, and stop the development of sarcoidosis. However, cortisone injections can have side effects such as skin discoloration, infection, and hormone changes in women[6]. It is also important to note that repeated cortisone injections can damage soft tissue, and a treatment plan will set limits on their frequency[9].

Cortisone itself is inactive and must be converted to cortisol by the action of 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 to have a pharmacological effect. This primarily happens in the liver, which is the main site at which cortisone becomes cortisol after oral or systemic injection[2].

Cortisone should not be used if you have a fungal infection anywhere in your body or if you are allergic to it[5]. It is also important to avoid being near people who are sick or have infections, as cortisone can weaken the body's ability to fight infections[5]. Interaction with other medications is possible, so it is important to inform your healthcare provider about all other medicines you are taking[5].

In summary, cortisone is a versatile medication used to treat various inflammatory conditions, but it must be used with caution due to the potential for side effects and interactions with other medications. It is essential to follow the healthcare provider's instructions and to be aware of the potential risks associated with its use.

Citations:

[1] https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/20718-cortisone-tablets

[2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cortisone

[3] https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/medications/cortisone-oral

[4] https://www.verywellhealth.com/cortisone-shot-side-effects-2549714

[5] https://www.drugs.com/mtm/cortisone.html

[6] https://www.arthritis-health.com/treatment/injections/cortisone-injection-risks-and-side-effects

[7] https://www.hss.edu/conditions_cortisone-shots.asp

[8] https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/topical-steroids/

[9] https://www.arthritis-health.com/treatment/injections/what-know-getting-cortisone-injection

[10] https://www.healthline.com/health/drugs/cortisone-oral-tablet

[11] https://www.drugs.com/drug-class/topical-steroids.html

[12] https://www.yalemedicine.org/news/cortisone-shots

[13] https://www.webmd.com/arthritis/what-are-cortisone-shots

[14] https://dermnetnz.org/topics/topical-steroid

[15] https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-8641/cortisone-oral/details

[16] https://www.nhsinform.scot/tests-and-treatments/medicines-and-medical-aids/types-of-medicine/corticosteroids/

[17] https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/cortisone-shots-steroid-injections

[18] https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/steroid-injections/

[19] https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/hydrocortisone-injections/

[20] https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/hydrocortisone-topical-application-route/side-effects/drg-20073814?p=1