cortisoniksi

Cortisone, a glucocorticoid steroid, refers to both a natural hormone produced by the adrenal cortex and to synthetic corticosteroids used as medicines for their anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects. In the body, cortisone is converted to cortisol, the active hormone that helps regulate metabolism, immune responses, and stress reactions.

Natural production and mechanism

Cortisone and cortisol are produced in the adrenal glands and released in response to adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). Cortisol exerts wide-ranging effects by influencing gene expression and the activity of numerous inflammatory pathways. Synthetic corticosteroids mimic these actions and can be tailored in potency and duration to treat various conditions.

Medical uses and forms

Corticosteroids are prescribed for many inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, inflammatory bowel disease, asthma, dermatitis, and some allergies. They can be given systemically (oral or injectable) or locally (topical creams, intra-articular injections) or via inhalation or eye drops, depending on the condition. Common synthetic glucocorticoids include prednisone, prednisolone, dexamethasone, hydrocortisone, methylprednisolone, and betamethasone.

Safety and considerations

Short-term use is generally well tolerated, but long-term or high-dose therapy can cause side effects including suppression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, weight gain, high blood sugar, osteoporosis, increased infection risk, mood changes, and skin thinning. Tapering is often necessary when stopping long courses to prevent withdrawal symptoms. Use is guided by medical supervision, with attention to potential interactions and contraindications, such as active systemic fungal infections.

History and regulation

The discovery and development of cortisone and related corticosteroids transformed inflammatory medicine in the 20th century. Today these drugs are prescription medicines, used judiciously to balance therapeutic benefits against risks.