CORTISONE

The medicines known as corticosteroids (also called steroids or cortisone) are like the body's natural hormone hydrocortisone. Hydrocortisone helps to control the immune system, body metabolism, and our response to stress. When taken as medications, the corticosteroids have two main effects. They reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system. The type of preparation ordered depends on the condition being treated.

Corticosteroids can be taken orally, injected, put on the skin, inhaled, or taken rectally. Other than mild forms used as skin creams, such as 1 percent hydrocortisone, corticosteroids require a prescription. Prednisone is the most commonly prescribed corticosteroid taken by mouth.

Corticosteroids are prescribed for many conditions. They are also used with other immune suppressing medications after organ transplants. If you are not sure why you are taking a corticosteroid, ask your healthcare provider. Some common conditions treated with corticosteroids are:

asthma
chronic lung disease
rheumatoid arthritis
lupus
colitis
psoriasis and
some allergic conditions

When inhaled or placed on the skin, the corticosteroids have few side effects. However, when taken orally for long periods of time, these medications can cause serious problems. Depending on the condition being treated, the dose of corticosteroid may fluctuate or remain constant.

Some of the side effects seen with oral corticosteroids are:

changes in appearance such as rounding of the face, facial hair growth in women, and obesity
thinning of the skin, stretch marks, and easy bruising
changes in body minerals, especially potassium
increased risk of certain types of infections, such as yeast or fungal infections and
increased blood sugar

Your risk of these side effects depends on the dose and length of corticosteroid therapy as well as your medical history and conditions. Although these drugs can cause many side effects, they can be very effective, even lifesaving.

If you should develop some side effects, never stop taking the medication. Call your healthcare provider for instructions. Patients taking corticosteroids for prolonged periods will require a gradual reduction in dose before stopping the treatment. Never stop taking these medications suddenly or without the advice of your healthcare provider. If you have any questions about these medications, contact your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

HIL File MEDI4744.RF2 VRS# 4744 Data Version 7.0