Cortisone

Generic Name

cortisone

Trade Name

Cortone

Indication

management of adrenocortical insufficiency (Addison's Disease).

Action

Replace cortisol in states of deficiency, suppress inflammation and normal immune response.  The adrenal glands sit on top of the kidneys.  The adrenal glands excrete steroid hormones, including cortisol that play a role in increasing blood sugars, immune suppression, and metabolism of fat, protein, and carbohydrates, as well as decreasing bone formation.

Therapeutic Class

antiasthmatics, corticosteroids

Pharmacologic Class

corticosteroids

Nursing Considerations

Excreted by the liver - monitor liver profile

Avoid in active untreated infections

may cause CNS alterations

may cause peptic ulcers

may cause Cushingoid appearance (buffalo hump, moon face)

Weight gain

Osteoporosis

Decrease wound healing

May elevate blood sugars

May increase cholesterol and lipid values