Introduction
Cortisol belongs to a group of medicine called steroids. It is used for the treatment of redness and swelling in the eyes caused by infection or allergy. It provides relief from redness, itchiness and soreness by stopping the release of substances in the body that cause inflammation.
Never use Cortisol if the seal is broken before you use it for the first time. Wash your hands before using it and shake the bottle well before each use. Make sure you remove contact lenses if you wear them and wait for at least 15 minutes before putting them back. Do not stop using this medicine without asking your doctor. Stopping the medication before time may allow the bacteria to continue their growth, which may result in return of the infection.
The most common side effects of Cortisol are burning sensation, irritation, or blur the vision temporarily. If your vision is blurred or you have other changes in sight for a time, do not drive until your vision is clear.
Uses of Cortisol
- Redness and swelling in the eye
Side effects of Cortisol
Common
- Burning sensation
- Eye irritation
- Watery eyes
How Cortisol works
Cortisol is a steroid. It works by blocking the production of certain chemical messengers that make the eye red, swollen and itchy.
Indication
Conjunctivitis, steroid-responsive inflammation of the palpebral and bulbar conjunctiva, cornea and anterior segment of the globe.
Adult Dose
Ophthalmic
Conjunctivitis
Adult: Instill 1-2 drops into the affected eye(s) 2-4 times daily. Higher frequency may be used during the initial 24-48 hr, if needed.
Contraindication
Epithelial defect, glaucoma, herpes, vaccinia, varicella, and other viral diseases of cornea or conjunctiva, mycobacterial infection of eye, fungal diseases of ocular structures, hypersensitivity to any ingredients
Mode of Action
Prednisolone decreases inflammation by inhibition of migration of polymorphonuclear leukocytes and reversal of increased capillary permeability. It suppresses the immune system by reducing the activity and production of the lymphocytes and eosinophils.
Precaution
Prolonged use of corticosteroids may result in damage to the optic nerve and defects in vision. If this product is used for longer period of time, intraocular pressure should be routinely monitored.
Side Effect
Raised IOP and reduced visual function with possible development of glaucoma and infrequent optic nerve damage, posterior subcapsular cataract formation and delayed wound healing.
Fungal and viral infections of the cornea are particularly may develop coincidentally with long-term applications of steroid.