Hydrocortisone

Ulcerative colitis is both an autoimmune disorder and sensitive to stress.  Using hydrocortisol to reduce inflammation followed by physiologic replacement doses when indicated is a reasonable supportive therapeutic strategy.

Physiologic replacement doses of oral cortisol can make a dramatic difference in cases of adrenal exhaustion.  Because of side-effects induced by larger doses, many doctors are reluctant to use it and many patients are thus deprived of a valuable and needed therapy.  Physiologic doses of cortisol (5-25mg per day) are safe.  Lab testing can confirm the diagnosis of mild adrenocortical deficiency.  A doctor experienced with cortisol use should be consulted; a typical prescription is 5mg four times per day, with an emphasis on early morning use if later doses keep you up at night, or if fewer doses are taken.

Never apply a topical steroid like cortisone to rosacea unless directed to do so by your doctor for a specific reason.  Cortisone treatments can worsen rosacea over the long term and make it even more resistant to treatment.