Cortisone Acetate
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Aristocort, Celestone, Cortef, Deltasone, Liquid Pred, Medrol, Orasone
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Aristocort, Celestone, Cortef, Deltasone, Liquid Pred, Medrol, Orasone
USES: This medication is a corticosteroid. It reduces swelling. It is used for many conditions, among them:
HOW TO TAKE THIS MEDICATION: Take with food or immediately after a meal to prevent stomach upset. Take this medication as prescribed. Follow the dosing schedule carefully. Be sure to ask your doctor if you have any questions. If you are taking this medication only once a day, it should be taken in the morning before 9 a.m. The suspension form must be shaken well before each use. First use of suspension may require shaking for 5 to 7 minutes. After the first use, no more than 30 seconds of shaking should be required to mix all the ingredients well. If you have been taking this medication for a long time, do not suddenly stop taking it without your doctor’s approval. Your dose may need to be gradually reduced. You may experience extreme fatigue, weakness, stomach upset or dizziness when the medication is suddenly stopped.
SIDE EFFECTS: May cause dizziness, nausea, indigestion, increased appetite, weight gain, weakness or sleep disturbances. These effects should disappear as your body adjusts to the medication. If they persist or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you experience: vomiting of blood, black or tarry stools, puffing of the face, swelling of the ankles or feet, unusual weight gain, prolonged sore throat or fever, muscle weakness, breathing difficulties, mood changes, vision changes. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash:
PRECAUTIONS: Before using this drug, tell your doctor your medical history, particularly if you have:
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Before you take this drug, tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medications you are taking especially: aspirin, arthritis medication, anticoagulants (‘blood thinners’), diuretics (‘water pills’), rifampin, phenobarbital, estrogen (e.g., birth control pills), phenytoin, ketoconazole, neostigmine, pyridostigmine, ambenonium, drugs for diabetes. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include joint or muscle pain, purple patches on the skin, headache, increased thirst or urination, blurred vision, tiredness, stomach pain, or muscle weakness.
NOTES: Persons taking this medication for long-term therapy should wear or carry identification stating that they are taking a corticosteroid. Do not allow anyone else to take this medication.
MISSED DOSE: If you are taking a daily dose and miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember; however, do not take it if it is almost time for the next dose. If it almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up. For all other dosing regimens: if you miss a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Your dosing schedule may need to be changed.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (between 15 and 30 degrees C) away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom. Do not freeze liquid forms of this medication. Certain liquid forms may require refrigeration. Consult your pharmacist.
