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Cortisone Side Effects

Cortisone is a corticosteroid used in the treatment of severe allergies, arthritis, skin conditions, lupus, psoriasis and breathing disorders. The medication works by suppressing the release of substances in the body that cause inflammation and swelling. As with most steroid medications, there are a number of side effects associated with using this drug.

  1. Common Side Effects

    • As mentioned, there are certain side effects associated with using this medication. Some of these side effects include mood changes, acne, insomnia, increased sweating, dizziness, drowsiness, headache, dry skin, thinning skin, bloating, nausea, stomach pain and changes in the location of body fat. While these are considered the most common side effects associated with using cortisone, they only affect a small number of users.

    Severe Side Effects

    • Unfortunately, there are also a number of severe side effects associated with using this medication. Some of these side effects include rapid weight gain, vision problems, severe depression, seizures, shortness of breath, bloody stools, coughing up blood, low potassium, extremely high blood pressure, and pancreatitis. These side effects are also very rare and do not affect a large amount of users.

    Important Safety Information

    • Cortisone has been known to cause increased dizziness and drowsiness in users and it is highly recommended that users do not operate any type of machinery (including automobiles) while using this medication. Do not use this medication if you are allergic to cortisone or if you have a fungal infection anywhere in your body. Steroid medications can weaken your body's immune system. As a result, it is recommended that you stay away from anyone with a sickness or disease throughout the course of treatment.

    Usage

    • Always use cortisone exactly as it was prescribed by your doctor and never in dosages that exceed what has been recommended on the label. The medication is administered in injection form and should be performed by a medical professional in a medical setting. Cortisone will give users a feeling of painlessness in the affected area, but the muscle is still susceptible to injury. It is recommended to treat the affected area (no matter how healed it may feel) as if it is still injured.

    Warning

    • If you experience any of the above side effects, contact your local physician immediately.

      If an overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center and head directly to the nearest emergency room.

      Cortisone is meant for the relief of inflammation only and should never be used for any other medical condition unless specifically prescribed by your doctor.

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