Cortisone is a steroid commonly used for a variety of health problems in dogs. It is a component in many ointments used to treat skin problems resulting from allergies. It is also dispensed in a spray applied to the skin of the dog.
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Uses of Topical Cortisone
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Topical cortisone is usually for short term treatment of acute skin conditions. The likelihood of side effects increases the longer the cortisone is used. The most common use is to treat hot spots or isolated skin conditions.
Symptoms Associated with Cortisone Side Effects
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Most notable physical symptoms of a cortisone reaction are hair loss and muscle weakness. Symptoms such as liver or stomach problems also occur but are harder for the pet owner to perceive.
Other Side Effects
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Continued overuse of cortisone has been linked to Cushing's disease. Cushing's disease, hyperadrenocorticism, is defined as an over-production of the adrenal hormone. It is also associated with tumors in the pituitary gland.
Cortisone Medications
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The ointments commonly used in the treatment of hot spots and other skin problems in dogs are a mixture of cortisone, antibiotics and antihistamines. In some cases, antibiotic pills are also prescribed for the dog.
Other Animals
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Skin disorders in cats are also treated with cortisone. They are less prone to adverse side effects than dogs.
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