Cortisone
Cortisone is a synthetic corticosteroid that mimics the effects of cortisol, a hormone naturally produced by the adrenal glands. It is primarily used to reduce inflammation and suppress abnormal immune responses in various conditions. This medication is available in injectable, oral, and topical formulations for systemic or localized treatment.
Cortisone is a corticosteroid used to treat inflammation and immune-related conditions by suppressing inflammatory responses in the body.
This medication carries a boxed (black box) warning — the strongest type of FDA warning. Review the full prescribing information before use.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- H02A
- RxNorm
- unknown
- Generic
- Cortisone
- Class
- atc-h02
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- otc
- Pregnancy
- C
- Lactation
- caution
- Half-life (h)
- 0.5
- Onset (min)
- 120
- Duration (h)
- 12
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet
- Regions
- United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Germany, France
- Monitoring
- blood pressure, blood glucose, electrolytes, bone density
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Cortisone is used to treat adrenal insufficiency, inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and bursitis, allergic reactions, certain skin disorders, respiratory conditions like asthma, and autoimmune diseases. It may also be used in cancer treatment to reduce swelling and manage side effects of chemotherapy.
As a glucocorticoid, cortisone works by binding to glucocorticoid receptors in cells, which influences gene expression to reduce the production of inflammatory substances like prostaglandins and cytokines. It also suppresses immune cell activity, including lymphocytes and macrophages, thereby decreasing inflammatory and immune responses.
Long-term use requires gradual tapering to avoid adrenal insufficiency. Common side effects include increased appetite, weight gain, mood changes, elevated blood sugar, and fluid retention. It may mask signs of infection and interact with other medications including blood thinners, diabetes drugs, and vaccines. Treatment should be supervised by a healthcare provider due to potential serious adverse effects with prolonged use.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy