Home Health Medicine Cortisol: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Price, Composition, Precautions & More

Cortisol: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Price, Composition, Precautions & More

January 11, 2019

What is Cortisol?

Cortisol is a corticosteroid hormone in the class of glucocorticoid hormones but when used as a medication it is known as hydrocortisone.
Cortisol decreases the body’s natural defensive response and reduces symptoms such as swelling and allergic-type reactions.

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Uses of Cortisol

Cortisol is prescribed for:

Arthritis
Blood, hormone, immune system disorders
Allergic reactions
Skin and eye conditions
Breathing problems

Know more: Argipreg Uses

Cortisol Composition

Clobetasol

Read more: Cremalax Composition

How does Cortisol work?

Hydrocortisone binds to the cytosolic glucocorticoid receptor and then interacts with basic transcription factors, causing the increase in expression of specific target genes.
The anti-inflammatory actions of corticosteroids control the biosynthesis of prostaglandins and leukotrienes.

Cortisol Price in India

Specific	Cortisol Price in India
Cortisol Cream	Rs. 65
Cortisol Lotion	Rs. 48

Also check out: Adaferin Price

How to take Cortisol?

Cortisol is administered topically in the form of creams, lotions and ointments.
It is also available in the form of tablets to be taken by mouth.

Common dosage of Cortisol

Apply the topical form over the affected area as directed by your physician.
In case of inflammation, the dose for children under 12 years is 2.5-10 mg/kg per day in divided doses every 6-8 hours and for children, 12 years and older, dose range is 15-240 mg oral.

Read more: Defcort Dosage

When to avoid Cortisol & Precautions to take?

Avoid using Cortisol if you are allergic to it or any other inactive ingredients present along with it.
Contraindicated for untreated serious infections, idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, and administration of living or live.
Caution should be exercised in patients with cirrhosis, ocular herpes simplex, hypertension, diverticulitis, hypothyroidism, myasthenia gravis, peptic ulcer disease, osteoporosis, ulcerative colitis, psychotic tendencies, renal insufficiency, pregnancy, diabetes mellitus, congestive heart failure, thromboembolic disorders, and GI disorders.
Taking this medication may cause thromboembolic disorders and myopathy and may also delay wound healing.
This medication, when used for a longer period, may result in elevated intraocular pressure, glaucoma, or cataracts.

Read more: Depas Precaution

Side Effects of Cortisol

Stomach upset
Headache
Dizziness
Menstrual changes
Trouble sleeping
Increased appetite
Weight gain

Effect on organs?

Endocrine reactions- Cushing’s syndrome, adrenal suppression.
Dermatologic reactions- Skin discomfort, acne or folliculitis, telangiectasia, skin atrophy, dry skin.
Ocular reactions- Eye stinging or burning.
Gastrointestinal reactions- Nausea.
Nervous system reactions- Headache.

Reported allergic reactions?

Allergic reactions may include:

Hives
Rash
Fever
Wheezing
Trouble breathing
Swelling of face, throat, hands/legs

Drug interactions to be careful about?

Severe Interactions of cortisol include mifepristone.

There are over hundreds of drugs which interact with cortisol medication and it is advised to tell your doctor if receiving any other medicine before using this medication.

Shows effects

The effect of this medication may last for 6 to 8 hours after the oral administration.
The topical form of this medication is used for its anti-inflammatory or immunosuppressive properties to treat inflammation due to corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses.

Storage Requirements for Cortisol

Keep it in an air-tight container.
Keep it away from direct light or moisture.
Keep it out of reach of children.

Pro Tips when taking Cortisol

Stay away from people who have chickenpox or measles unless you have previously had these diseases.
Do not drive while receiving this medicine because of side effects like drowsiness or dizziness.

FAQS

Is Cortisol addictive?

Can I have Cortisol with alcohol?

Any particular food item to be avoided?

Can I have Cortisol when pregnant?

Yes; only if the benefit outweighs the risks.

Can I have Cortisol when feeding a baby?

Can I drive after taking Cortisol?

What happens if I overdose on Cortisol?

An overdose of Cortisol may cause thinning of the skin, easy bruising, changes in body fat, increased acne or facial hair, menstrual problems, impotence, or loss of interest in sex.

What happens if I eat expired Cortisol?

Expired Cortisol may become ineffective in treating your prescribed conditions, thus to be on the safe side, it is important not to use the expired drug.

What happens if I miss a dose of Cortisol?

If you miss a dose of Cortisol, skip it and continue with your normal schedule. Do not double dose for a missed one.