Dosage guidance:
Dosing: Individualize dosing and use the minimum effective dose.
Adrenal insufficiency, chronic:
Note: For use as an alternative agent when hydrocortisone is unavailable. Use in combination with fludrocortisone in patients with mineralocorticoid deficiency (eg, primary adrenal insufficiency) (Ref).
Maintenance dosing: Oral: 25 to 37.5 mg/day in 2 or 3 divided doses, depending on available dosage forms. Administer larger dose in the morning, followed by smaller dose(s) later in the day. May adjust daily dose if needed based on signs and symptoms of under- or over-replacement; use the lowest effective dose (Ref)
Stress dosing: Note: For use in patients with chronic adrenal insufficiency (AI) and acute physiologic stressors (eg, illness, surgery) to prevent development of adrenal crisis. Patients without known chronic AI with recent or current chronic glucocorticoid use at supraphysiologic doses (eg, >25 mg/day cortisone) may have hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis suppression and may require stress dosing; individualize treatment decisions in these patients (Ref). If a parenteral glucocorticoid is required (eg, unable to take oral medications, critical illness, labor/delivery, moderate/severe surgical stress), switch to hydrocortisone (Ref). Dosing provided is calculated based on hydrocortisone equivalency with rounding based on available strengths.
Acute physiologic stress/illness:
Febrile illness: Double the chronic maintenance dose for fever 38°C (100.4°F) to 39°C (102.2°F) or triple the chronic maintenance oral dose for fever >39°C (>102.2°F) or persistent nausea. Continue higher dose for 3 days, then return to baseline dose if fever has resolved. If fever has not resolved by day 4, further evaluation (with continued use of higher steroid doses if needed) is required (Ref).
Illness requiring hospitalization (eg, community acquired pneumonia): Oral: 62.5 to 100 mg/day in 2 or 3 divided doses, depending on available dosage forms. For patients requiring a parenteral glucocorticoid, switch to hydrocortisone. Taper and return to baseline dose within 2 to 3 days following improvement of underlying condition (Ref).
Surgical stress:
Minor surgical stress (eg, hernia repair, procedures with local anesthetic): Oral: Give an additional 25 mg supplemental dose on the day of surgery (Ref).
Anti-inflammatory or immunosuppressive:
Note: In patients receiving chronic glucocorticoids (eg, ≥3 to 4 weeks) at supraphysiologic doses (>25 mg/day cortisone) for indications other than adrenal insufficiency, risk of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis suppression is increased. If glucocorticoid discontinuation is indicated, reduce dose gradually and monitor for signs of adrenal insufficiency. Higher doses may be needed during acute illness or surgery (Ref).
Oral: Initial: 25 to 300 mg/day; adjust dose to patient response.
Dosage adjustment for concomitant therapy: Significant drug interactions exist, requiring dose/frequency adjustment or avoidance. Consult drug interactions database for more information.
There are no dosage adjustments provided in the manufacturer’s labeling; use with caution.
There are no dosage adjustments provided in the manufacturer’s labeling; use with caution.
Refer to adult dosing.
(For additional information see "Cortisone acetate: Pediatric drug information")
Dosage guidance:
Dosing: Dose depends upon condition being treated and response of patient; dosage for children and adolescents should be based on disease severity and patient response rather than by rigid adherence to dosage guidelines by age, weight, or body surface area. Discontinuation of long-term therapy requires gradual withdrawal by tapering the dose.
Congenital adrenal hyperplasia, maintenance: Note: Other corticosteroids (eg, hydrocortisone) are preferred over cortisone. Mineralocorticoid (eg, fludrocortisone) and sodium supplementation may be required in salt losers (Ref).
Children and Adolescents: Limited data available, variable regimens reported: Oral: 10 to 25 mg/m2/day in 3 divided doses; reported range: 10 to 36 mg/m2/day in divided doses. Individualize dose based on growth, bone age, and hormone levels (Ref). Usual adult daily dose range: 20 to 35 mg/day (Ref). Some experts recommend administering the highest dose first thing in the morning, and lower doses for the last 2 doses to attempt to mimic the normal diurnal variation of endogenous cortisol (Ref).
Dosage adjustment for concomitant therapy: Significant drug interactions exist, requiring dose/frequency adjustment or avoidance. Consult drug interactions database for more information.
There are no dosage adjustments provided in the manufacturer's labeling; use with caution.
There are no dosage adjustments provided in the manufacturer's labeling; use with caution.
The following adverse drug reactions and incidences are derived from product labeling unless otherwise specified.
Frequency not defined:
Cardiovascular: Heart failure (in susceptible patients), myocardial rupture (after recent myocardial infarction), thromboembolism
Dermatologic: Allergic dermatitis, diaphoresis, ecchymoses, erythema of skin, skin atrophy, urticaria
Endocrine & metabolic: Decreased serum potassium, fluid retention, hirsutism, hypokalemic alkalosis, menstrual disease, negative nitrogen balance (due to protein catabolism), sodium retention, weight gain
Gastrointestinal: Impaired intestinal carbohydrate absorption, increased appetite, intestinal perforation, nausea
Hematologic & oncologic: Petechia
Hypersensitivity: Angioedema, hypersensitivity reaction
Nervous system: Headache, increased intracranial pressure (with papilledema), malaise, psychosis, seizure, vertigo
Neuromuscular & skeletal: Amyotrophy, aseptic necrosis of femoral head, aseptic necrosis of humeral head, pathological fracture (long bone), rupture of tendon, steroid myopathy
Ophthalmic: Exophthalmos
Miscellaneous: Wound healing impairment
Postmarketing:
Cardiovascular: Atrial fibrillation (van der Hooft 2006), hypertension (Mebrahtu 2020), venous thrombosis (Johannesdottir 2013)
Endocrine & metabolic: Adrenal suppression (Broersen 2015), Cushing syndrome (Hopkins 2005), cushingoid appearance (Hopkins 2005), diabetes mellitus (including exacerbation of diabetes mellitus) (Tamez-Perez 2015), dyslipidemia (Vodnala 2012), growth retardation (children) (Liu 2013), hyperglycemia (Tamez-Perez 2015), moon face (Hopkins 2005), prediabetes (Tamez-Perez 2015), redistribution of body fat (Hopkins 2005)
Gastrointestinal: Abdominal distention (Liu 2013), pancreatitis (Liu 2013), peptic ulcer (with possible perforation and hemorrhage) (Liu 2013), ulcerative esophagitis (Liu 2013)
Nervous system: Psychiatric disturbance (including agitation, anxiety, distractibility, euphoria, fear, hypomania, irritability, labile mood, lethargy, pressured speech, restlessness, tearfulness) (Ciriaco 2013; Warrington 2006)
Neuromuscular & skeletal: Osteoporosis (Buckley 2018), vertebral compression fractures (Buckley 2018)
Ophthalmic: Glaucoma (Razeghinejed 2012), subcapsular posterior cataract (Urban 1986)
Hypersensitivity to cortisone or any component of the formulation; systemic fungal infection; administration of live virus vaccines (with immunosuppressive doses of cortisone).
Significant drug interactions exist, requiring dose/frequency adjustment or avoidance. Consult drug interactions database for more information.
Canadian labeling: Additional contraindications (not in US labeling): The Canadian product monograph describes various conditions as relative contraindications, including but not limited to, infections (fungal, mycobacterial, viral), ocular herpes simplex, acute psychoses, diverticulitis, and pregnancy; refer to the product monograph for further details.
Concerns related to adverse effects:
• Adrenal suppression: May cause hypercortisolism or suppression of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, particularly in younger children or in patients receiving high doses for prolonged periods. HPA axis suppression may lead to adrenal crisis. Withdrawal and discontinuation of a corticosteroid should be done slowly and carefully. Particular care is required when patients are transferred from systemic corticosteroids to inhaled products due to possible adrenal insufficiency or withdrawal from steroids, including an increase in allergic symptoms. Adult patients receiving >20 mg per day of prednisone (or equivalent) may be most susceptible. Fatalities have occurred due to adrenal insufficiency in asthmatic patients during and after transfer from systemic corticosteroids to aerosol steroids; aerosol steroids do not provide the systemic steroid needed to treat patients having trauma, surgery, or infections.
• Anaphylactoid reactions: Rare cases of anaphylactoid reactions have been observed in patients receiving corticosteroids.
• Immunosuppression: Prolonged use of corticosteroids may also increase the incidence of secondary infection, mask acute infection (including fungal infections), prolong or exacerbate viral infections, or limit response to inactivated vaccines. Exposure to chickenpox or measles should be avoided. Corticosteroids should not be used for cerebral malaria or viral hepatitis. Close observation is required in patients with tuberculosis (TB) infection (latent TB) and/or TB reactivity; restrict use in TB disease (active TB) (only fulminating or disseminated TB in conjunction with antituberculosis treatment). Amebiasis should be ruled out in any patient with recent travel to tropical climates or unexplained diarrhea prior to initiation of corticosteroids.
• Kaposi sarcoma: Prolonged treatment with corticosteroids has been associated with the development of Kaposi sarcoma (case reports); if noted, discontinuation of therapy should be considered (Goedert 2002).
• Myopathy: Acute myopathy has been reported with high-dose corticosteroids, usually in patients with neuromuscular transmission disorders; may involve ocular and/or respiratory muscles; monitor creatine kinase; recovery may be delayed.
• Psychiatric disturbances: Corticosteroid use may cause psychiatric disturbances, including severe depression, euphoria, insomnia, mood swings, personality changes, to frank psychotic manifestations. Preexisting psychiatric conditions may be exacerbated by corticosteroid use.
Disease-related concerns:
• Cardiovascular disease: Use with caution in patients with heart failure and/or hypertension; use has been associated with electrolyte disturbances, fluid retention, and hypertension. Use with caution in patients with a recent history of myocardial infarction (MI); left ventricular free wall rupture has been reported after the use of corticosteroids.
• Diabetes: Use with caution in patients with diabetes mellitus; may alter glucose production/regulation leading to hyperglycemia.
• Gastrointestinal disease: Use with caution in patients with GI diseases (diverticulitis, fresh intestinal anastomoses, active or latent peptic ulcer, ulcerative colitis [nonspecific) due to perforation risk.
• Head injury: Increased mortality was observed in patients receiving high-dose IV methylprednisolone; high-dose corticosteroids should not be used for the management of head injury.
• Hepatic impairment: Use with caution in patients with hepatic impairment, including cirrhosis; long-term use has been associated with fluid retention.
• Myasthenia gravis: Use may cause transient worsening of myasthenia gravis (MG) (eg, within first 2 weeks of treatment); monitor for worsening MG (AAN [Narayanaswami 2021]).
• Ocular disease: Use with caution in patients with cataracts and/or glaucoma; increased intraocular pressure, open-angle glaucoma, and cataracts have occurred with prolonged use. Use with caution in patients with a history of ocular herpes simplex; corneal perforation has occurred; do not use in active ocular herpes simplex. Consider routine eye exams in chronic users.
• Osteoporosis: Use with caution in patients with osteoporosis; high doses and/or long-term use of corticosteroids have been associated with increased bone loss and osteoporotic fractures.
• Renal impairment: Use with caution in patients with renal impairment; fluid retention may occur.
• Seizure disorders: Use with caution in patients with a history of seizure disorder; seizures have been reported with adrenal crisis.
• Systemic sclerosis: Use with caution in patients with systemic sclerosis; an increase in scleroderma renal crisis incidence has been observed with corticosteroid use. Monitor BP and renal function in patients with systemic sclerosis treated with corticosteroids (EULAR [Kowal-Bielecka 2017]).
• Thyroid disease: Changes in thyroid status may necessitate dosage adjustments; metabolic clearance of corticosteroids increases in patients with hyperthyroidism and decreases in patients with hypothyroidism.
Special populations:
• Older adult: Because of the risk of adverse effects, systemic corticosteroids should be used cautiously in the smallest possible effective dose for the shortest duration in older adults.
• Pediatric: May affect growth velocity; growth and development should be routinely monitored in pediatric patients.
Other warnings/precautions:
• Discontinuation of therapy: Withdraw therapy with gradual tapering of dose.
May cause osteoporosis (at any age) or inhibition of bone growth in pediatric patients. Use with caution in patients with osteoporosis. In a population-based study of children, risk of fracture was shown to be increased with >4 courses of corticosteroids; underlying clinical condition may also impact bone health and osteoporotic effect of corticosteroids (Leonard 2007). Increased intraocular pressure (IOP) may occur, especially with prolonged use. In children, increased IOP has been shown to be dose and age dependent; children 3 to <6 years of age treated with ophthalmic dexamethasone experienced higher peak IOP as compared to children 6 to 10 years (Lam 2005).
Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling.
Tablet, Oral, as acetate:
Generic: 25 mg
Yes
Tablets (Cortisone Acetate Oral)
25 mg (per each): $18.00
Disclaimer: A representative AWP (Average Wholesale Price) price or price range is provided as reference price only. A range is provided when more than one manufacturer's AWP price is available and uses the low and high price reported by the manufacturers to determine the range. The pricing data should be used for benchmarking purposes only, and as such should not be used alone to set or adjudicate any prices for reimbursement or purchasing functions or considered to be an exact price for a single product and/or manufacturer. Medi-Span expressly disclaims all warranties of any kind or nature, whether express or implied, and assumes no liability with respect to accuracy of price or price range data published in its solutions. In no event shall Medi-Span be liable for special, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages arising from use of price or price range data. Pricing data is updated monthly.
Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling.
Tablet, Oral, as acetate:
Generic: 25 mg
Oral: Administer with food to decrease GI upset.
Oral: Administer with meals, food, or milk to decrease GI effects.
Allergic states: Control of severe or incapacitating allergic conditions intractable to adequate trials of conventional treatment of atopic dermatitis, bronchial asthma, contact dermatitis, drug hypersensitivity reactions, seasonal or perennial allergic rhinitis, and serum sickness.
Dermatologic diseases: Bullous dermatitis herpetiformis, exfoliative dermatitis, mycosis fungoides, pemphigus, severe erythema multiforme (Stevens-Johnson syndrome), severe psoriasis, severe seborrheic dermatitis.
Endocrine disorders: Congenital adrenal hyperplasia, hypercalcemia associated with cancer, nonsuppurative thyroiditis, primary or secondary adrenocortical insufficiency (hydrocortisone or cortisone is the first choice; synthetic analogs may be used in conjunction with mineralocorticoids when applicable; in infancy, mineralocorticoid supplementation is of particular importance).
GI diseases: During acute episodes of regional enteritis and ulcerative colitis.
Hematologic disorders: Acquired (autoimmune) hemolytic anemia, congenital (erythroid) hypoplastic anemia, erythroblastopenia (red blood cell [RBC] anemia), immune thrombocytopenia (formerly known as idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura) in adults, secondary thrombocytopenia in adults.
Neoplastic diseases: Palliative management of leukemias and lymphomas in adults; acute leukemia of childhood.
Ophthalmic diseases: Severe acute and chronic allergic and inflammatory processes involving the eye and its adnexa (eg, allergic conjunctivitis, allergic corneal marginal ulcers, anterior segment inflammation, chorioretinitis, diffuse posterior uveitis and choroiditis, keratitis, herpes zoster ophthalmicus, iritis and iridocyclitis, optic neuritis, sympathetic ophthalmia).
Renal diseases: To induce diuresis or remission of proteinuria in nephrotic syndrome, without uremia, of the idiopathic type or that is caused by systemic lupus erythematosus.
Respiratory diseases: Aspiration pneumonitis, berylliosis, fulminating or disseminated pulmonary tuberculosis when used concurrently with appropriate antituberculosis chemotherapy, Loeffler syndrome not manageable by other means, symptomatic sarcoidosis.
Rheumatic disorders: Adjunctive therapy for short-term administration (to tide the patient over an acute episode or exacerbation) in acute and subacute bursitis; acute gouty arthritis; acute nonspecific tenosynovitis; ankylosing spondylitis; epicondylitis; posttraumatic osteoarthritis; psoriatic arthritis; rheumatoid arthritis (RA), including juvenile RA (select cases may require low-dose maintenance therapy); and synovitis of osteoarthritis. During an exacerbation or as maintenance therapy in select cases of acute rheumatic carditis, systemic dermatomyositis (polymyositis), and systemic lupus erythematosus.
Miscellaneous: Tuberculous meningitis with subarachnoid block or impending block when used concurrently with appropriate antituberculous chemotherapy; trichinosis with neurologic or myocardial involvement.
Cortisone may be confused with Cardizem, Cortizone
Substrate of CYP3A4 (Minor); Note: Assignment of Major/Minor substrate status based on clinically relevant drug interaction potential;
Note: Interacting drugs may not be individually listed below if they are part of a group interaction (eg, individual drugs within “CYP3A4 Inducers [Strong]” are NOT listed). For a complete list of drug interactions by individual drug name and detailed management recommendations, use the drug interactions program by clicking on the “Launch drug interactions program” link above.
Abrocitinib: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase immunosuppressive effects of Abrocitinib. Management: The use of abrocitinib in combination with other immunosuppressants is not recommended. Doses equivalent to more than 2 mg/kg or 20 mg/day of prednisone (for persons over 10 kg) administered for 2 or more weeks are considered immunosuppressive. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase adverse/toxic effects of Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors. Increased muscular weakness may occur. Risk C: Monitor
Aldesleukin: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of Aldesleukin. Risk X: Avoid
Amezinium: Cortisone may increase stimulatory effects of Amezinium. Risk C: Monitor
Amphotericin B: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase hypokalemic effects of Amphotericin B. Risk C: Monitor
Androgens: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase fluid-retaining effects of Androgens. Risk C: Monitor
Antacids: May decrease bioavailability of Corticosteroids (Oral). Management: Consider separating doses by 2 or more hours. Budesonide enteric coated tablets could dissolve prematurely if given with drugs that lower gastric acid, with unknown impact on budesonide therapeutic effects. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Antidiabetic Agents: Hyperglycemia-Associated Agents may decrease therapeutic effects of Antidiabetic Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Antithymocyte Globulin (Equine): Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase adverse/toxic effects of Antithymocyte Globulin (Equine). Specifically, these effects may be unmasked if the dose of systemic corticosteroid is reduced. Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase immunosuppressive effects of Antithymocyte Globulin (Equine). Specifically, infections may occur with greater severity and/or atypical presentations. Risk C: Monitor
Baricitinib: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase immunosuppressive effects of Baricitinib. Management: The use of baricitinib in combination with potent immunosuppressants is not recommended. Doses equivalent to more than 2 mg/kg or 20 mg/day of prednisone (for persons over 10 kg) administered for 2 or more weeks are considered immunosuppressive. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
BCG Products: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of BCG Products. Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase adverse/toxic effects of BCG Products. Specifically, the risk of vaccine-associated infection may be increased. Risk X: Avoid
Bile Acid Sequestrants: May decrease absorption of Corticosteroids (Oral). Risk C: Monitor
Brincidofovir: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of Brincidofovir. Risk C: Monitor
Brivudine: May increase adverse/toxic effects of Corticosteroids (Systemic). Risk X: Avoid
Calcitriol (Systemic): Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of Calcitriol (Systemic). Risk C: Monitor
CAR-T Cell Immunotherapy: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of CAR-T Cell Immunotherapy. Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase adverse/toxic effects of CAR-T Cell Immunotherapy. Specifically, the severity and duration of neurologic toxicities may be increased. Management: Avoid use of corticosteroids as premedication before treatment with CAR-T cell immunotherapy agents. Corticosteroids are indicated and may be required for treatment of toxicities such as cytokine release syndrome or neurologic toxicity. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Cardiac Glycosides: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase adverse/toxic effects of Cardiac Glycosides. Risk C: Monitor
Chikungunya Vaccine (Live): Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase adverse/toxic effects of Chikungunya Vaccine (Live). Specifically, the risk of vaccine-associated infection may be increased. Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of Chikungunya Vaccine (Live). Risk X: Avoid
Cladribine: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase immunosuppressive effects of Cladribine. Risk X: Avoid
Coccidioides immitis Skin Test: Coadministration of Corticosteroids (Systemic) and Coccidioides immitis Skin Test may alter diagnostic results. Management: Consider discontinuing systemic corticosteroids (dosed at 2 mg/kg or 20 mg/day of prednisone (for persons over 10 kg) administered for 2 or more weeks) several weeks prior to coccidioides immitis skin antigen testing. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Corticorelin: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of Corticorelin. Specifically, the plasma ACTH response to corticorelin may be blunted by recent or current corticosteroid therapy. Risk C: Monitor
Cosyntropin: Coadministration of Cortisone and Cosyntropin may alter diagnostic results. Management: Patients receiving cortisone should omit their pre-test dose on the day selected for cosyntropin testing. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
COVID-19 Vaccine (Inactivated Virus): Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of COVID-19 Vaccine (Inactivated Virus). Risk C: Monitor
COVID-19 Vaccine (mRNA): Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of COVID-19 Vaccine (mRNA). Management: Give a 3-dose primary series for all patients aged 6 months and older taking immunosuppressive medications or therapies. Booster doses are recommended for certain age groups. See CDC guidance for details. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
COVID-19 Vaccine (Subunit): Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of COVID-19 Vaccine (Subunit). Risk C: Monitor
CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong): May increase serum concentration of Cortisone. Risk C: Monitor
Deferasirox: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase adverse/toxic effects of Deferasirox. Specifically, the risk for GI ulceration/irritation or GI bleeding may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Dengue Tetravalent Vaccine (Live): Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of Dengue Tetravalent Vaccine (Live). Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase adverse/toxic effects of Dengue Tetravalent Vaccine (Live). Specifically, the risk of vaccine associated infection may be increased. Risk X: Avoid
Denosumab: May increase immunosuppressive effects of Corticosteroids (Systemic). Management: Consider the risk of serious infections versus the potential benefits of coadministration of denosumab and systemic corticosteroids. If combined, monitor patients for signs/symptoms of serious infections. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Desirudin: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase anticoagulant effects of Desirudin. More specifically, corticosteroids may increase hemorrhagic risk during desirudin treatment. Management: Discontinue treatment with systemic corticosteroids prior to desirudin initiation. If concomitant use cannot be avoided, monitor patients receiving these combinations closely for clinical and laboratory evidence of excessive anticoagulation. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Desmopressin: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase hyponatremic effects of Desmopressin. Risk X: Avoid
Deucravacitinib: May increase immunosuppressive effects of Corticosteroids (Systemic). Management: The use of deucravacitinib in combination with potent immunosuppressants is not recommended. Doses equivalent to more than 2 mg/kg or 20 mg/day of prednisone (for persons over 10 kg) administered for 2 or more weeks are considered immunosuppressive. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Dinutuximab Beta: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase immunosuppressive effects of Dinutuximab Beta. Management: Corticosteroids are not recommended for 2 weeks prior to dinutuximab beta, during therapy and for 1 week after treatment. Doses equivalent to over 2 mg/kg or 20 mg/day of prednisone (persons over 10 kg) for 2 or more weeks are considered immunosuppressive Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Estrogen Derivatives: May increase serum concentration of Corticosteroids (Systemic). Risk C: Monitor
Etrasimod: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase immunosuppressive effects of Etrasimod. Risk C: Monitor
Filgotinib: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase immunosuppressive effects of Filgotinib. Management: Coadministration of filgotinib with systemic corticosteroids at doses equivalent to greater than 2 mg/kg or 20 mg/day of prednisone (for persons over 10 kg) administered for 2 or more weeks is not recommended. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Gallium Ga 68 Dotatate: Coadministration of Corticosteroids (Systemic) and Gallium Ga 68 Dotatate may alter diagnostic results. Risk C: Monitor
Growth Hormone Analogs: Cortisone may decrease therapeutic effects of Growth Hormone Analogs. Growth Hormone Analogs may decrease active metabolite exposure of Cortisone. Risk C: Monitor
Hyaluronidase: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of Hyaluronidase. Management: Patients receiving corticosteroids (particularly at larger doses) may not experience the desired clinical response to standard doses of hyaluronidase. Larger doses of hyaluronidase may be required. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors (Anti-PD-1, -PD-L1, and -CTLA4 Therapies): Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors (Anti-PD-1, -PD-L1, and -CTLA4 Therapies). Management: Carefully consider the need for corticosteroids, at doses of a prednisone-equivalent of 10 mg or more per day, during the initiation of immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy. Use of corticosteroids to treat immune related adverse events is still recommended Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Indium 111 Capromab Pendetide: Coadministration of Corticosteroids (Systemic) and Indium 111 Capromab Pendetide may alter diagnostic results. Risk X: Avoid
Inebilizumab: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase immunosuppressive effects of Inebilizumab. Risk C: Monitor
Influenza Virus Vaccines: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of Influenza Virus Vaccines. Management: Administer influenza vaccines at least 2 weeks prior to initiation of systemic corticosteroids at immunosuppressive doses. Influenza vaccines administered less than 14 days prior to or during such therapy should be repeated 3 months after therapy. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Isoniazid: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease serum concentration of Isoniazid. Risk C: Monitor
Leflunomide: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase immunosuppressive effects of Leflunomide. Management: Increase the frequency of chronic monitoring of platelet, white blood cell count, and hemoglobin or hematocrit to monthly, instead of every 6 to 8 weeks, if leflunomide is coadministered with immunosuppressive agents, such as systemic corticosteroids. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Licorice: May increase serum concentration of Corticosteroids (Systemic). Risk C: Monitor
Loop Diuretics: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase hypokalemic effects of Loop Diuretics. Risk C: Monitor
Lutetium Lu 177 Dotatate: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of Lutetium Lu 177 Dotatate. Management: Avoid repeated use of high-doses of corticosteroids during treatment with lutetium Lu 177 dotatate. Use of corticosteroids is still permitted for the treatment of neuroendocrine hormonal crisis. The effects of lower corticosteroid doses is unknown. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Macimorelin: Coadministration of Corticosteroids (Systemic) and Macimorelin may alter diagnostic results. Risk X: Avoid
MetyraPONE: Coadministration of Corticosteroids (Systemic) and MetyraPONE may alter diagnostic results. Management: Consider alternatives to the use of the metyrapone test in patients taking systemic corticosteroids. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Mifamurtide: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of Mifamurtide. Risk X: Avoid
MiFEPRIStone: May decrease therapeutic effects of Corticosteroids (Systemic). MiFEPRIStone may increase serum concentration of Corticosteroids (Systemic). Management: Avoid mifepristone in patients who require long-term corticosteroid treatment of serious illnesses or conditions (eg, for immunosuppression following transplantation). Corticosteroid effects may be reduced by mifepristone treatment. Risk X: Avoid
Mumps- Rubella- or Varicella-Containing Live Vaccines: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of Mumps- Rubella- or Varicella-Containing Live Vaccines. Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase adverse/toxic effects of Mumps- Rubella- or Varicella-Containing Live Vaccines. Specifically, the risk of vaccine-associated infection may be increased. Risk X: Avoid
Nadofaragene Firadenovec: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase adverse/toxic effects of Nadofaragene Firadenovec. Specifically, the risk of disseminated adenovirus infection may be increased. Risk X: Avoid
Natalizumab: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase immunosuppressive effects of Natalizumab. Risk X: Avoid
Neuromuscular-Blocking Agents (Nondepolarizing): May increase adverse neuromuscular effects of Corticosteroids (Systemic). Increased muscle weakness, possibly progressing to polyneuropathies and myopathies, may occur. Management: If concomitant therapy is required, use the lowest dose for the shortest duration to limit the risk of myopathy or neuropathy. Monitor for new onset or worsening muscle weakness, reduction or loss of deep tendon reflexes, and peripheral sensory decriments Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Nicorandil: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase adverse/toxic effects of Nicorandil. Gastrointestinal perforation has been reported in association with this combination. Risk C: Monitor
Nirmatrelvir and Ritonavir: May increase serum concentration of Cortisone. Risk C: Monitor
Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Agents (COX-2 Selective): Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase adverse/toxic effects of Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Agents (COX-2 Selective). Risk C: Monitor
Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Agents (Nonselective): Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase adverse/toxic effects of Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Agents (Nonselective). Risk C: Monitor
Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Agents (Topical): May increase adverse/toxic effects of Corticosteroids (Systemic). Specifically, the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding, ulceration, and perforation may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Ocrelizumab: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase immunosuppressive effects of Ocrelizumab. Risk C: Monitor
Ofatumumab: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase immunosuppressive effects of Ofatumumab. Risk C: Monitor
Ozanimod: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase immunosuppressive effects of Ozanimod. Risk C: Monitor
Pidotimod: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of Pidotimod. Risk C: Monitor
Pimecrolimus: May increase immunosuppressive effects of Corticosteroids (Systemic). Risk X: Avoid
Pneumococcal Vaccines: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of Pneumococcal Vaccines. Risk C: Monitor
Poliovirus Vaccine (Live/Trivalent/Oral): Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of Poliovirus Vaccine (Live/Trivalent/Oral). Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase adverse/toxic effects of Poliovirus Vaccine (Live/Trivalent/Oral). Specifically, the risk of vaccine-associated infection may be increased. Risk X: Avoid
Polymethylmethacrylate: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase adverse/toxic effects of Polymethylmethacrylate. Specifically, the risk for hypersensitivity or implant clearance may be increased. Management: Use caution when considering use of bovine collagen-containing implants such as the polymethylmethacrylate-based Bellafill brand implant in patients who are receiving immunosuppressants. Consider use of additional skin tests prior to administration. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Quinolones: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase adverse/toxic effects of Quinolones. Specifically, the risk of tendonitis and tendon rupture may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Rabies Vaccine: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of Rabies Vaccine. Management: Complete rabies vaccination at least 2 weeks before initiation of immunosuppressant therapy if possible. If combined, check for rabies antibody titers, and if vaccination is for post exposure prophylaxis, administer a 5th dose of the vaccine. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Ritlecitinib: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase immunosuppressive effects of Ritlecitinib. Risk X: Avoid
Ritodrine: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase adverse/toxic effects of Ritodrine. Risk C: Monitor
Ruxolitinib (Topical): Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase immunosuppressive effects of Ruxolitinib (Topical). Risk X: Avoid
Salicylates: May increase adverse/toxic effects of Corticosteroids (Systemic). These specifically include gastrointestinal ulceration and bleeding. Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease serum concentration of Salicylates. Withdrawal of corticosteroids may result in salicylate toxicity. Risk C: Monitor
Sargramostim: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase therapeutic effects of Sargramostim. Specifically, corticosteroids may enhance the myeloproliferative effects of sargramostim. Risk C: Monitor
Sipuleucel-T: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of Sipuleucel-T. Management: Consider reducing the dose or discontinuing immunosuppressants, such as systemic corticosteroids, prior to initiating sipuleucel-T therapy. Doses equivalent to more than 2 mg/kg or 20 mg/day of prednisone given for 2 or more weeks are immunosuppressive. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Sitafloxacin: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase adverse/toxic effects of Sitafloxacin. Specifically, the risk of tendonitis and tendon rupture may be increased. Management: Consider alternatives to coadministration of corticosteroids and sitafloxacin unless the benefits of coadministration outweigh the risk of tendon disorders. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Sodium Benzoate: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of Sodium Benzoate. Risk C: Monitor
Sphingosine 1-Phosphate (S1P) Receptor Modulators: May increase immunosuppressive effects of Corticosteroids (Systemic). Risk C: Monitor
Succinylcholine: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase neuromuscular-blocking effects of Succinylcholine. Risk C: Monitor
Tacrolimus (Systemic): Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease serum concentration of Tacrolimus (Systemic). Conversely, when discontinuing corticosteroid therapy, tacrolimus concentrations may increase. Risk C: Monitor
Tacrolimus (Topical): Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase immunosuppressive effects of Tacrolimus (Topical). Risk X: Avoid
Talimogene Laherparepvec: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase adverse/toxic effects of Talimogene Laherparepvec. Specifically, the risk of infection from the live, attenuated herpes simplex virus contained in talimogene laherparepvec may be increased. Risk X: Avoid
Tertomotide: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of Tertomotide. Risk X: Avoid
Tesamorelin: May decrease active metabolite exposure of Cortisone. Risk C: Monitor
Thiazide and Thiazide-Like Diuretics: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase hypokalemic effects of Thiazide and Thiazide-Like Diuretics. Risk C: Monitor
Tofacitinib: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase immunosuppressive effects of Tofacitinib. Management: Coadministration of tofacitinib with potent immunosuppressants is not recommended. Doses equivalent to more than 2 mg/kg or 20 mg/day of prednisone (for persons over 10 kg) administered for 2 or more weeks are considered immunosuppressive. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Typhoid Vaccine: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of Typhoid Vaccine. Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase adverse/toxic effects of Typhoid Vaccine. Specifically, the risk of vaccine-associated infection may be increased. Risk X: Avoid
Ublituximab: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase immunosuppressive effects of Ublituximab. Risk C: Monitor
Upadacitinib: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase immunosuppressive effects of Upadacitinib. Management: Coadministration of upadacitinib with systemic corticosteroids at doses equivalent to greater than 2 mg/kg or 20 mg/day of prednisone (for persons over 10 kg) administered for 2 or more weeks is not recommended. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Urea Cycle Disorder Agents: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of Urea Cycle Disorder Agents. More specifically, Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase protein catabolism and plasma ammonia concentrations, thereby increasing the doses of Urea Cycle Disorder Agents needed to maintain these concentrations in the target range. Risk C: Monitor
Vaccines (Live): Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase adverse/toxic effects of Vaccines (Live). Specifically, the risk of vaccine-associated infection may be increased. Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of Vaccines (Live). Management: Avoid live vaccines during and for 1 month after therapy with immunosuppressive doses of corticosteroids (equivalent to prednisone > 2 mg/kg or 20 mg/day in persons over 10 kg for at least 2 weeks). Give live vaccines 4 weeks prior to therapy if possible. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Vaccines (Non-Live/Inactivated/Non-Replicating): Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of Vaccines (Non-Live/Inactivated/Non-Replicating). Management: Administer vaccines at least 2 weeks prior to immunosuppressive corticosteroids if possible. If patients are vaccinated less than 14 days prior to or during such therapy, repeat vaccination at least 3 months after therapy if immunocompetence restored. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Vitamin K Antagonists: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase anticoagulant effects of Vitamin K Antagonists. Risk C: Monitor
Yellow Fever Vaccine: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase adverse/toxic effects of Yellow Fever Vaccine. Specifically, the risk of vaccine-associated infection may be increased. Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of Yellow Fever Vaccine. Risk X: Avoid
Zoster Vaccine (Live/Attenuated): Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase adverse/toxic effects of Zoster Vaccine (Live/Attenuated). Specifically, the risk of vaccine-associated infection may be increased. Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of Zoster Vaccine (Live/Attenuated). Risk X: Avoid
Cortisone crosses the placenta (Migeon 1957).
Some studies have shown an association between first trimester systemic corticosteroid use and oral clefts; however, information is conflicting and may be influenced by maternal dose, duration/frequency of exposure, and indication for use. Additional data is needed to evaluate any potential risk of systemic corticosteroids and other adverse pregnancy outcomes (eg, gestational diabetes mellitus, low birth weight, preeclampsia, preterm birth) (ACOG 2019; Bandoli 2017; Lunghi 2010; Skuladottir 2014). Hypoadrenalism may occur in newborns following maternal use of corticosteroids in pregnancy; monitor.
Cortisone may be used (alternative agent) to treat primary adrenal insufficiency (PAI) during pregnancy. Pregnant patients with PAI should be monitored at least once each trimester (ES [Bornstein 2016]).
Corticosteroids are present in breast milk.
The manufacturer notes that when used systemically, maternal use of corticosteroids have the potential to cause adverse events in a breastfeeding infant (eg, growth suppression, interference with endogenous corticosteroid production).
Breastfeeding is not recommended by the manufacturer in patients taking pharmacologic doses. If there is concern about exposure to the infant, some guidelines recommend waiting 4 hours after the maternal dose of an oral systemic corticosteroid before breastfeeding in order to decrease potential exposure to the breastfeeding infant (based on a study using prednisolone) (Butler 2014; Ost 1985).
May need diet with increased potassium, pyridoxine, vitamin C, vitamin D, folate, calcium, and phosphorus and decreased sodium; may be taken with food to decrease GI upset.
Serum glucose, electrolytes, BP, weight, presence of infection, bone mineral density; assess HPA axis suppression (eg, ACTH stimulation test, morning plasma cortisol test, urinary free cortisol test); signs and symptoms of behavioral or mood changes; signs and symptoms of Cushing syndrome every 6 months; eye exams (with prolonged use).
Decreases inflammation by suppression of migration of polymorphonuclear leukocytes and reversal of increased capillary permeability
Absorption: Readily
Distribution: Distributes to muscles, liver, skin, intestines, and kidneys
Metabolism: Hepatic to active metabolite hydrocortisone (cortisol)
Bioavailability: Interindividual variability: 43.7% (reported range: 20% to 95%) (Heazelwood 1984)
Half-life elimination: ~0.5 hours
Time to peak, plasma: ~2 hours
Excretion: Urine and feces (Czock 2005)