$Unique_ID{BRK01378}
$Pretitle{Ill Defined Symptoms and Rare Diseases}
$Title{Serious Side Effects of Cortisone Medication Over Time}
$Subject{medications cortisone withdrawal}
$Volume{N}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Serious Side Effects of Cortisone Medication Over Time


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QUESTION:  I have been on a cortisone medication (prednisone) for quite
sometime, prescribed because of my medical condition (severe asthma).  Now,
though I have no bad experiences yet, I am worrying about the possibility of
serious side effects over time, and if I will ever be able to get off the
medication.  Have you any information about this?  How do you go about it?  I
would hate to become depend upon this medicine for the rest of my life.

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ANSWER:  The use of cortisone, or the other similar medications
(corticosteroids) brings relief for those who suffer many varied ailments.  Of
use not only in severe asthma, these medications are very important in
treating temporal arteritis, ulcerative colitis, many allergic reactions and
hypersensitivities, polymyositis, and systemic lupus erythematosus.  It is
also used to help control organ rejection, in transplantation operations.
Yet, as with so many other powerful medications, it may also create problems
when used in high doses over long periods of time.  Although not all
complications occur in all patients, corticosteroid therapy may cause
hypertension, sodium and water retention with bloating and weight gain,
stomach ulcerations, impaired wound healing, osteoporosis, glaucoma,
recurrence of tuberculosis and chickenpox as well as increased susceptibility
to all types of infections, bacterial, fungal and viral.  The trick is to use
the lowest possible dosage that achieves the desired effect and to employ
various strategies that reduce the possibility of side effects.  Using the
medication in creams or lotions to reduce the amount required in tablets, or
in alternate day dosage schedules may be helpful in some cases.  However the
process of withdrawal is a long one, and must be closely managed by your
physician.  Some experts advise wearing a medical identification bracelet
indicating that you are steroid dependent.  Gradually the medication dosage is
reduced, while the blood levels are carefully measured.  Since the body has
its own rhythm of cortisone production, taking your medication in the early
morning between 6 and 8 AM will help re-establish normal patterns.  The
process is a complicated one, but can be accomplished by working with your
doctor.
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
