What Are the Risks & Side Effects of Cortisone Shots in the Neck?

Cortisone is a powerful drug that is used in the treatment of a variety of disorders. Although useful, it does have serious side effects.

Uses

• Cortisone is a hormone naturally produced by the body in times of stress. Cortisone injections are used to treat conditions ranging from arthritis to asthma to hormonal disorders.

Delivery Methods

• Depending on your condition, your doctor may recommend that you receive cortisone from an IV, an injection or a pill. All three methods are safe: none carries any additional risks.

Cortisone and the Immune System

• Cortisone has the side effect of suppressing your immune system. While this can be useful in treating people with autoimmune conditions (in which your immune system attacks your body), in other people, this effect can lead to infection and serious illness.

Other Side Effects

• Cortisone can cause a variety of other side effects. The most common of these effects are psychological, including mood swings and depression. If used for a long period of time, eye problems may result. Cortisone has also been connected with diabetes.

Overall Safety

• While harmful side effects may result from the use of cortisone, it should be used only in conditions in which the consequences of using it would be far worse.