General Information on Cortef
Cortef is used for treating certain conditions in patients such as arthritis, skin or eye conditions, blood disorders, hormonal disorders, immune system disorders, cancer, severe allergies, or breathing problems. Its generic name is Hydrocortisone, a natural corticosteroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands.
Hydrocortisone is needed by the body so that it can function well. It is also important for water and salt balance in the body so that blood pressure is maintained at normal levels. In some cases, Cortef can also be used to treat diseases of the adrenal glands, such as adrenocortical insufficiency or Addison’s disease.
You can buy Cortef in the form of oral tablets. The drug works by decreasing a patient’s immune response to diseases so that symptoms such as swelling and pain are relieved.
Side effects of Cortef
Do not buy Cortef if you are allergic to Hydrocortisone, or if you are suffering from a heart problem (e.g. recent heart attack or heart failure), eye disease (e.g. glaucoma or cataracts), stomach or intestinal problems (e.g. ulcer or diverticulitis), current or past infections (e.g. tuberculosis, fungal infection or herpes), mental or psychological conditions (e.g. anxiety, psychosis or depression), thyroid problems, kidney or liver disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, brittle bones, blood clots, bleeding problems, seizures, or low calcium or potassium levels in the blood. Such patients may have increased risks of developing serious side effects of the drug.
Some side effects that Cortef patients may commonly experience include dizziness, headache, heartburn, nausea, trouble sleeping, acne, increased sweating, or changes in menstrual periods. Since Cortef works by curbing your immune response, you may be more vulnerable to contracting infections. As such, inform your doctor immediately if you develop signs of an infection such as chills, fever, throat soreness, or cough.
Sometimes, Cortef may lead to an increase in your blood sugar levels, the signs of which include increased thirst and increased urination. Also inform your doctor immediately if you suffer from unusual tiredness, sudden weight gain, swelling of the feet or ankles, vision problems, puffy face, easy bruising or bleeding, unusual hair growth, mental or mood changes, thinning skin, muscle pain or weakness, bone pain, or slow healing of wounds.
In rare cases, Cortef may also lead to serious bleeding in the intestines or stomach. Symptoms of such a condition include dark colored vomit, black or bloody stools, or persistent stomach or abdominal pain. Inform your doctor immediately if you witness any of these symptoms. Also inform him or her if you experience seizures or chest pain.
Some hypersensitive patients may have an allergic reaction to Cortef. Symptoms of such a condition include hives, severe dizziness, facial swelling, or difficulty breathing. Stop using the drug and seek medical attention immediately if you suffer from any of these symptoms.
Dosage of Cortef
The dosage of Cortef may range from 20mg to 240mg per day depending on the medical condition to be treated, your response to treatment, other medical conditions you are suffering from, and other drugs you are taking at present.
