There are many effective medications to treat the presence of inflammation, even in cases as serious as that caused by cancer. Approximately 90% of the world population has used corticosteroids at least once in their lives. Among the most common drugs we find cortisone, which is available in different presentations.
In this article we will talk about cortisone, what it is, how it is used and what its possible side effects are.
What is cortisone?
- IUPAC name: (8S,9S,10R,13S,14S,17R)-17-hydroxy-17-(2-hydroxyacetyl)-10,13-dimethyl-1,2,6,7,8,9,12 ,14,15,16-decahydrocyclopenta[a]phenanthrene-3,11-dione
- Formula: C 21H 28 O 5
- Molar mass: 360.45 g/mol
- Melting point: 220 °C
- Melting point: 220–224 °C
- Weight: 360.46 g/mol
Cortisone is a steroid hormone , which is used as a treatment to alleviate various ailments and inflammations. This medication is an immune system suppressant, which offers many benefits in relieving pain and reducing swelling. However, it can have serious side effects on the immune system if used for a long time.
It should be noted that cortisone is not the same as cortisol , although both are produced in the zona fascicularis of the adrenal glands . Cortisol is more abundant than cortisone and focuses attention on the body’s response to stress .
How is cortisone used?
Cortisone is a medicine that can generate various effects in the body, so it is necessary to use it correctly. It is very important to follow the doctor’s instructions and remember to comply with the treatment at the stipulated time. The mode of use depends on your presentation.
- Oral cortisone. It can be obtained in presentations of 5, 10 and 20 mg. It is possible to consume these tablets with or after meals. If the patient inadvertently misses a dose, the doctor should be informed immediately.
- Cortisone injections. This presentation should only be administered by a specialist doctor, either intramuscularly or intravenously. And preferably, in a health center.
- Other presentations. It is also possible to use drops, lotions or creams. For each of them, the health professional must tell the patient how to use it, and the appropriate frequency to treat the condition.
Cortisone helps reduce different health problems , such as internal inflammation, asthma, headaches , and rheumatoid arthritis. It has the same anti-inflammatory effect externally in the body, treating allergies, redness and hives.
It can also be used as a treatment against cancer, or to improve the health of those who have received an organ transplant. This is because it helps the body to better assimilate the unknown agents that are entering the body.
Precautions when using cortisone
To avoid complications, it is necessary to take into account the following precautions when using a treatment with corticosteroids.
- Follow the directions. It is important not to stop treatment abruptly or change doses without the ordering of the treating physician. In this way, side effects are avoided.
- Before taking cortisone. Prior to starting a treatment with cortisone, it is essential that the doctor is informed about the diseases that the patient has, as well as the medications, with or without a prescription, that he uses, for example, aspirin.
- Avoid vaccinations. This medicine inhibits the function of the immune system, so that the administration of vaccines with active viruses could be more difficult for the body to counteract.
- Pregnancy or lactation. It should not be used during pregnancy unless the doctor confirms that the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks. You should not breastfeed during this treatment either, and you should consult your doctor if you have any questions.
Taking cortisone for a long time increases the risk of contracting viruses and infections . In addition, it is recommended to wash your hands frequently and avoid places that may be contaminated, for example, a hospital. Another important recommendation is to take cortisone in the morning, since its consumption in the afternoon can prevent sleep conciliation.
cortisone side effects
Cortisone is a medication that should never be used without the supervision of a doctor. The side effects of its excessive use can become serious , especially due to the action it exerts on the immune system. In addition, the interaction of this medicine with other diseases or drugs must be taken into account. Let’s look at some side effects.
- It affects the pancreas. Three days of corticosteroid treatment may be enough for the pancreas to become inflamed. In some cases, acute pancreatitis may occur .
- Alters the condition of the bones. Osteoporosis is a frequent sign among the consequences of this treatment for a very long time. If you already have problems with your bones, it is advisable to consult your doctor to find another alternative.
- It causes some skin problems. Corticosteroid creams or ointments can cause thinning of the skin, in addition to damaging it, affecting its healing capacity.
- Raise glucoselevels . This treatment influences the liver, causing glucose to rise temporarily. If the person has pathologies, such as diabetes , the disease will be much more difficult to control.
Corticosteroid injections are more efficient, but the amount that must be given per year is limited . These injections can be used directly into the joints and joints of the wrist, elbow, shoulder, knee, hip, and spine.
However, they can have more noticeable effects, for example facial swelling and redness, increased appetite, cartilage damage, nearby bone death, insomnia, and weakening of the skin and soft tissues around the injection site. .
Most people do not experience all of the side effects listed. Generally, these signs can be reversible and stop when treatment is finished. A doctor should be consulted if there are severe or unusual symptoms after the use of cortisone.
