cortison

A doctor prescribes cortison to reduce inflammation.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A corticosteroid hormone: "cortisone" (note: the correct spelling is "cortisone," not "cortison") is a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal cortex or synthesized for medical use; it is used primarily to reduce inflammation and suppress immune responses.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The doctor prescribed cortisone to treat her severe arthritis. (A medication derived from the hormone to reduce joint inflammation.)
  • Cortisone injections are commonly used for allergic reactions. (A medical treatment involving the hormone.)

Advanced Usage

• "to be on cortisone": to be receiving treatment with this hormone.

  • She has been on cortisone for her skin condition for several months. (She is undergoing corticosteroid therapy.)

• "cortisone cream": a topical preparation containing the hormone.

  • Apply the cortisone cream to the rash twice a day. (A medicated ointment for local inflammation.)

Variants and Related Words

• Corticosteroid (n): any of a class of steroid hormones produced by the adrenal cortex, including cortisone.

  • Corticosteroids are used to treat autoimmune diseases. (A broader category of hormones.)

• Cortisol (n): another name for hydrocortisone, a related hormone with similar functions.

  • Cortisol levels rise in response to stress. (A specific corticosteroid.)

Synonyms

• Glucocorticoid: a class of steroids that includes cortisone, used for anti-inflammatory effects.
• Hydrocortisone: a specific corticosteroid similar to cortisone, often used in creams.

Phrasal Verbs

• None directly applicable: "cortisone" is a noun and does not form phrasal verbs.

Related Idioms

• None directly applicable: "cortisone" is a medical term without common idiomatic usage.