Cortisone

Cortisone or cortisone is a very effective drug in many areas that can be used in different ways. However, due to the wide range of side effects, higher doses of cortisone should not be used over a longer period of time.

What is cortisone?

Under Cortisone basically all hormones that are formed in the adrenal cortex are combined. The most important of these hormones, also called glucocorticoids, are corticosterone, cortisol and cortisone. They are required for many important functions in the human body, such as circulation, muscles, the immune system and metabolism.

In recent years, the body's own cortisone has been continuously improved through research, so that it is now available in artificial form as an effective drug. Furthermore, by changing the original substance, it was possible to reduce the side effects of the drug.

Today, cortisone is not only available in tablets or syringes, but also as a nasal spray, eye drops, cream or inhalant. This has greatly increased the areas of application for cortisone.

Application, benefits & use

Cortisone has a strong anti-inflammatory effect and can significantly alleviate allergic diseases. For this reason, cortisone is particularly used for rheumatism, asthma or skin diseases.

In acute cases of rheumatic diseases, the cortisone is injected into the affected joint. Otherwise it is taken orally. It has the effect that the inflammatory reactions in the diseased joints are reduced.

The skin diseases in which cortisone is used include not only eczema or rashes, but also psoriasis and neurodermatitis. The inflammatory reactions of these diseases can be alleviated with the help of cortisone in the form of creams or ointments.

In the case of asthma, cortisone is mostly used as an inhalation spray. On the one hand, this reduces the production of mucus in the bronchi and, on the other hand, reduces or even eliminates the inflammatory reactions. The susceptibility of the bronchi to certain stimuli also becomes significantly less.

For allergies, cortisone is used in the form of a nasal spray or eye drops. The allergic reactions are thereby alleviated. But cortisone can also be used in other inflammatory processes in the body, such as osteoarthritis.

Drug interactions

When using Cortisone there may be an interaction with different drugs. The attending physician should therefore be consulted.

Medications that contain barbituric acid (various sleeping pills), certain medications used for epilepsy, and rifampicin for tuberculosis can reduce the effects of cortisone. The dosage should therefore be increased.

If cortisone is taken together with laxatives or water tablets, it can lead to an increased loss of potassium. If cortisone is taken orally in conjunction with the rheumatism drugs NSAIDs, severe stomach problems or even a stomach ulcer can occur.

Risks & side effects

Although by changing the body's own Cortisone the side effects could be reduced, side effects can still occur. Especially at the beginning of therapy, cortisone is often prescribed in higher doses, which can lead to increased side effects.

It should be noted, however, that cortisone only distributes its effect, and thus the side effects, over the entire body with injections or tablets. Local application with drops, creams or sprays only results in local side effects. Creams and ointments containing cortisone can lead to acne, red veins and thin skin if used over a long period of time.

Even with eye drops and sprays containing cortisone, side effects are only to be expected with long-term use. The weakening of the immune system can lead to bacterial or fungal infections. Thinning of the cornea in the eye or the nasal mucosa is also possible. In severe cases, even a glaucoma can develop.

The inhalation of cortisone can also increase the risk of infection. However, this can be prevented by rinsing out the mouth afterwards.

In children, the use of cortisone can restrict growth, so the development should be checked regularly if it is used for a longer period.

Since the body's own cortisone production adapts to the drug, it should always be used at the same time. The drug must also be weaned slowly and not stopped suddenly. Since the effects of cortisone only set in after three to four days, a rapid onset of effects should not be expected.