Sometimes a doctor prescribes a medicine called 'Cortisone'. It could be for a skin problem, joint pain, or a condition like asthma. Some people get a little scared when they hear this name, because they know that these are a type of "steroid". But if you are properly informed and use it as the doctor says, this is a very important medicine that can control many diseases. So, today we will talk about this cortisone simply and clearly, like everything else.
Simply put, what is this cortisone?
Cortisone is a drug that belongs to the corticosteroid class of drugs. Imagine that for some reason there is swelling, redness, pain, or inflammation in a part of our body. This drug controls that inflammation and reduces the symptoms associated with it.
Because of this, doctors prescribe cortisone for a variety of conditions. For example:
- Respiratory diseases like asthma
- Various allergies (Allergies)
- Joint diseases such as arthritis
- Skin diseases (e.g. eczema, rashes)
- Inflammatory conditions in the lungs and other organs
- Some blood disorders
- Adrenal gland related diseases
This medicine is used for many other conditions in addition to this list. If you have any questions about why you have been prescribed this medicine, ask your doctor.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking medicine
This is the most important part. Before your doctor gives you cortisone, he or she should be aware of any other problems you may have. Don't ignore them because they can interact with other medical conditions. If you have any of the following conditions, tell your doctor before starting the medication.
| Do you have these conditions? | Why should you inform? |
|---|---|
| Diabetes | Cortisone can increase blood sugar levels. |
| High blood pressure or heart disease | These conditions are likely to worsen. |
| Stomach ulcers or intestinal diseases | This medicine may affect the lining of the stomach. |
| Current infections - e.g. tuberculosis, chickenpox, measles, herpes | Cortisone can increase the risk of infections because it suppresses the immune system. |
| Kidney or liver disease | The excretion and processing of medications may vary. |
| Osteoporosis - a disease of bone thinning | Long-term use of cortisone can affect bones. |
| Glaucoma, mental illness, myasthenia gravis | Cortisone has effects on these specific medical conditions. |
| Being pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding | The doctor should consider the possible effects on the child. |
| Allergies to other medications, foods, or dyes | To find out if you are allergic to cortisone or any of its ingredients. |
The correct way to use the medicine
- Take with a glass of water: Take the pill with a glass of water.
- Take after meals: It is best to take it with a meal or a glass of milk to reduce stomach upset.
- Take in the morning: If you only have to drink it once a day, it is best to drink it first thing in the morning.
- Do not change the dosage: Do not take more or less than the amount prescribed by your doctor.
- Don't stop suddenly (most important): This is the most important thing you need to remember. Never stop taking the medicine suddenly without your doctor's advice. Doing so can cause a severe reaction. If you need to stop taking the medicine, your doctor will gradually reduce the dose.
What if I overdose?
Imagine you have taken more than the prescribed dose. If this happens, do not panic, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
What if I miss a dose? (Missed Dose)
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take two pills at once to make up for a forgotten dose. If you are in doubt, talk to your doctor.
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medication, cortisone can cause side effects. Not everyone gets them. But it's important to be aware of them.
| Types of side effects | |
|---|---|
| Side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately | |
| Allergies | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue |
| Difficulty breathing | Shortness of breath, change in breathing rate |
| Changes in stool | Black, tarry stools |
| Body aches | Pain in the hips, back, ribs, arms, or shoulders |
| Increased blood pressure | Severe headache, dizziness |
| Signs of infection | Fever, sore throat, non-healing wounds |
| Symptoms of high blood sugar | Thirst, hunger, frequent urination, extreme fatigue, blurred vision |
| Other features | Bulging eyes, swelling of the feet or ankles |
| If the side effects persist, you should tell your doctor. | |
| Mental changes | Confusion, restlessness, excessive happiness |
| Digestive system problems | Headache, nausea, vomiting, stomach upset |
| Skin changes | Acne, thinning skin, and flaking |
| Other | Insomnia, weight gain |
Other medications that may interact with cortisone (Drug Interactions)
Not all medications we take are compatible with other medications. Some of them affect each other. We call that 'Drug Interactions'.
So it's best to give your doctor a complete list of all the medications you take (vitamins, herbal remedies, even supplements). Also tell them if you smoke or drink alcohol.
In particular, you should tell your doctor before starting cortisone if you are taking the following medications:
- Things that should not be taken together for any reason: `Mifepristone`, `RU-486` and some types of vaccines.
- Other medications that may interact: Aspirin, some antibiotics (such as clarithromycin, erythromycin), seizure medications (phenobarbital, phenytoin), blood thinners such as Rifampin, Ketoconazole, and Warfarin.
Take-Home Message
- Cortisone is a very important medication that controls inflammation, but it should only be used under the supervision of a doctor.
- Avoid stopping medication suddenly at any time without medical advice.
- Before starting the medication, tell your doctor about all other medical conditions you have and all other medications you are taking.
- Protect yourself from infections while taking this medicine. Tell your doctor immediately if you develop symptoms such as fever or non-healing sores.
- If you have any doubts or questions, always talk to your doctor before making decisions on your own.
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