Cortisone or cortisone is a, in many areas, very effective drug that can be applied in various ways. However, due to the wide range of side effects, cortisone should not be used in higher doses over a long period of time.
What is cortisone?
Cortisone or cortisone is a, in many areas, very effective drug that can be applied in various ways. Cortisone basically includes all hormones that are produced in the adrenal cortex. The most important of these hormones, also called glucocorticoids, are corticosterone, cortisol and cortisone. They are needed in the human body for many important functions, such as the circulatory system, the muscles, the immune system or the metabolism. In recent years, the body’s own cortisone has been constantly improved through research, so that it is now available in artificial form as an effective drug. Furthermore, by modifying the original substance, it has been possible to reduce the side effects of the drug. Cortisone is now available not only in tablet or syringe form, but also as a nasal spray, eye drops, cream or inhalant. This has greatly increased the areas of application for cortisone.
Application, benefits, and use
Cortisone has a strong anti-inflammatory effect and can significantly relieve allergic diseases. For this reason, cortisone is used especially for rheumatism, asthma or skin diseases. In acute cases of rheumatic diseases, cortisone is injected into the affected joint. Otherwise it is taken orally. It has the effect of reducing the inflammatory reactions in the diseased joints. Skin diseases for 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 bronchial tubes and, on the other hand, the inflammatory reactions are reduced or even eliminated. The susceptibility of the bronchial tubes to certain stimuli is also significantly reduced. In the case of allergies, cortisone is used in the form of nasal spray or eye drops. The allergic reactions are thereby alleviated. But cortisone can also be used for other inflammatory processes in the body, such as osteoarthritis.
Interactions with other medications
When cortisone is used, it may interact with various medications. Consultation with the treating physician should therefore be made. Medications containing barbituric acid (various sleeping pills), certain medications used for epilepsy, and rifampicin for tuberculosis may reduce the effect of cortisone. The dosage should therefore be increased. If cortisone is taken together with laxatives or dehydration tablets, there may be an increased loss of potassium. If cortisone is taken orally in combination with the rheumatism medications NSAIDs, severe stomach discomfort or even a stomach ulcer may result.
Risks and side effects
Although side effects have been attenuated by altering the body’s own cortisone, side effects may still occur. Especially at the beginning of therapy, cortisone is often prescribed in higher doses, which can lead to the increased occurrence of side effects. However, it should be noted that cortisone only distributes its effect, and thus the side effects, over the entire body in the case of injections or tablets. In the case of local applications with drops, creams or sprays, therefore, only local side effects occur. Creams and ointments with cortisone can lead to acne, red veins and thin skin if used over a longer period of time. Eye drops and sprays containing cortisone are also only likely to have side effects if used over a longer period of time. 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, glaucoma may even develop. Inhalation of cortisone can also lead to an increased risk of infection. However, this can be prevented by rinsing out the mouth afterwards.In children, the use of cortisone can restrict growth, so here the development should be checked regularly in the case of long-term use. Since the body’s own cortisone production adjusts to the drug, it should always be applied at the same time. The drug must also be weaned off slowly and must not be discontinued abruptly. Because cortisone takes three to four days to take effect, a rapid onset of action should not be expected.
