Calcort side effects
Using Calcort brings quick relief for inflammation, but like all corticosteroids it can cause side effects. What you might see depends on how you use it — cream, inhaler, injection, or pills — and how long you take it. Know the likely problems, simple ways to cut risk, and red flags that need medical attention.
Common side effects and where they show up
Topical (cream/ointment): expect temporary burning, stinging, itching, or dry skin at the application site. If used too long or on thin skin, you may notice skin thinning, stretch marks, small visible blood vessels, or acne-like bumps. Avoid the face, groin, and armpits unless your doctor says it’s okay.
Inhaled: some people get throat irritation, hoarseness, or white patches (oral thrush). Rinse and spit after each use to lower that chance.
Injected or oral (systemic): these carry higher risk of whole-body effects — weight gain, fluid retention, mood swings, trouble sleeping, higher blood pressure, and raised blood sugar. Longer courses can cause bone loss, higher infection risk, and suppression of your body’s own steroid production (adrenal suppression).
How to reduce side effects
Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time that controls symptoms. For topical medicine, apply a thin film and don’t cover with tight bandages unless directed. For inhalers, rinse your mouth and spit. For injections, avoid repeated shots at the same spot. If you take pills for more than a few weeks, your doctor will give a tapering plan — don’t stop abruptly.
Watch drug interactions. Steroids can raise blood sugar and may require diabetes medication adjustment. They can increase bleeding risk with some blood thinners and reduce effectiveness of certain vaccines — live vaccines in particular are usually avoided during systemic steroid use. Tell your doctor about all medicines and recent vaccines.
Kids and older adults need extra care. Children absorb more steroid through skin, increasing systemic effects. Older adults face higher risk of osteoporosis and fractures; your doctor may order bone-density checks and suggest calcium, vitamin D, or other treatments.
Monitoring matters. If you use systemic Calcort for weeks or longer your provider may check blood pressure, blood sugar, weight, and bone health. Eye exams are wise if you’re on long-term steroids, because cataracts and glaucoma risk can rise. Keep a symptom log so you can report changes clearly.
When to call your doctor now: high fever, severe new pain, sudden vision change, breathlessness, fast or strange heartbeat, severe swelling, signs of adrenal crisis (weakness, dizziness, severe fatigue), or any allergic reaction like hives or throat swelling. For mild irritation, mention it at your next visit; for the serious signs above, get immediate care.
Read the patient leaflet and ask your pharmacist for quick tips before you start. If a symptom starts after beginning Calcort and you’re unsure whether it’s the medicine, check with your healthcare provider — getting clarity early prevents bigger problems later.
