They treat many different types of inflammatory conditions and, while similar, have several significant differences.
For instance, hydrocortisone is available as an over-the-counter treatment, while cortisone requires a prescription.
The medications are also used differently in the body.
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Hydrocortisone is an anti-inflammatory drug that mimics the natural hormonecortisol, which is known as thestresshormone.
Cortisone must be processed by the liver and converted to hydrocortisone to produce anti-inflammatory effects.
Each drug comes in various forms to treat conditions ranging from bug bites to autoimmune diseases.
Both cortisone and hydrocortisone treat inflammatory autoimmune diseases and other health conditions.
They are fast-acting medications, but they act in different ways.
But it is shorter acting than cortisone.
Cortisone also suppresses the immune system, but it is not used topically.
It is a medication that must be processed by the liver and converted to hydrocortisone.
Cortisone is only available by prescription.
It comes in oral form and can be delivered in higher strengths than topical hydrocortisone medications.
Hydrocortisone is used for a number of conditions.
For example, Cortizone 10 is a mild hydrocortisone treatment sold over the counter as an anti-itch medication.
These forms of hydrocortisone are only available through a healthcare provider.
What Is Cortisone Used For?
It is available by prescription only.
Cortisone can be used to treat the following:
Which Is More Effective?
The medication that is best for you depends on the condition you are treating.
For more extensive rashes, you may seek out astronger steroid cream.
The strongest steroid creams or topicals you’re free to buy over the counter are hydrocortisone 1%.
But you may not need the strongest product available.
Stronger topical concentrations are available by prescription only.
So, it is important to see your healthcare provider to manage conditions that persist or are more serious.
Side Effects
The benefits of using any corticosteroid should be balanced by its potential side effects.
Therefore, when taking this medication, you may be given instructions on how to avoid exposure to infection.
Interactions
Corticosteroids may interact with other medications, making them more or less effective.
Don’t use hydrocortisone cream if you have signs of a fungal infection like thrush or athlete’s foot.
Don’t use it for diaper rash without checking with a healthcare provider.
Don’t use it on your face without your provider’s permission.
Cortisone is available only by prescription and comes in different forms.
If you are taking prescription corticosteroids, follow the directions carefully as outlined by your healthcare provider.
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