Types of application
The application can be done internally and externally as
Cortisone ointment is used for numerous skin diseases. However, the cream colloquially called cortisone ointment is usually an ointment which does not contain cortisone but other active substances from the group of corticosteroids. An example of such an active substance is mometasone.
Ointments containing mometasone are used for skin diseases such as psoriasis or eczema and are used for relief. An example is Momecutan 1mg/g ointment, which can be purchased in pharmacies on prescription. Ointments that actually contain hydrocortisone are used for light skin irritations, for example in case of light allergic reactions.
Possible side effects of ointments that contain cortisone or stronger agents from the group of corticoids are a slight burning sensation when applied to the affected area, thinning of the skin when used regularly, tingling sensations in the area where the ointment was applied and red spots or stripes on the skin. A discoloration of the skin (violet or dark blue) can also occur. Bacterial superinfections can also occur.
This means that after some time of application, in addition to the inflammation, bacteria settle in the area and an infection occurs. In addition, the skin can dry out and increased hair growth can occur. In nasal sprays, similar to ointments, there are various active ingredients from the group of corticosteroids in spray form.
For example, Mometasone nasal spray, better known under its trade name Nasonex®. It can be used for the treatment of allergic rhinitis, for example in the context of hay fever or for polyps in the area of the nose and paranasal sinuses. For polyps, two sprays per nostril should be applied twice a day, for hay fever two sprays per nostril once a day.
Another example of a cortisone derivative in nasal spray form is fluticasone. It is used for hay fever. Here too, 1-2 sprays once a day are recommended.
The nasal spray is available without a prescription from the pharmacy. The use of nasal spray with ingredients similar to cortisone can lead to side effects. These include irritation of the nose and throat, dryness of the nasal and pharyngeal mucous membranes, nosebleeds, formation of ulcers in the nasopharynx, headaches, and odour or taste disorders. It should not be used in the case of known hypersensitivity to one of the ingredients.
Cortisone for the treatment of allergies
Cortisone is mainly used to treat inflammatory reactions. However, it is also used for some forms of allergy. In local form, cortisone or similar active ingredients are used, for example, as a skin ointment for allergic skin reactions or as a nasal spray for hay fever.
However, this does not cure the underlying disease but serves to reduce the symptoms such as itching, burning eyes and allergic rhinitis. Cortisone derivatives are also used to reduce severe acute allergic reactions. One example is allergic shock.
This can be triggered by an insect bite or a foodstuff. In such situations, quick action is required as it can lead to a so-called anaphylactic shock which is life-threatening. In case of strong allergic reactions, high doses of cortisone or prednisolone can be applied. In addition, antihistamines and, if necessary, adrenaline are used. When cortisone preparations are used once in high doses, there are usually no side effects.
