HomeAnswersInternal MedicinecortisoneMy 10-year-old son with premature puberty is taking Cortone tablets. Is this medicine safe for him?

Is it safe for my 10-year-old son with precocious puberty to use Cortone tablets?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

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Published At December 4, 2023
Reviewed AtDecember 4, 2023

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

It is about my son. I noticed his hair loss when he was 10 years old. The endocrinologist, after reviewing the X-ray of his wrist and conducting tests, mentioned that he has premature puberty, which is affecting his bone growth. As a result, he started taking hydrocortisone pills. He also received other medications, and hydroxyprogesterone tests were conducted for monitoring. Until last year, when I asked the doctor whether he had grown enough and if there was no need to stop taking hydrocortisone pills, the doctor said it is a disorder in the pituitary gland, and he may need to use medicine for the rest of his life. After that, I consulted with two other endocrinologists, and they also shared the same opinion. Is it not harmful to use Cortone all these years, even though the dose is low?

Hello,

I am glad you chose icliniq for your medical-related queries.

I understand your concern.

Hair loss in children can have various causes, and it seems that your son's hair loss is related to premature puberty and a disorder in the pituitary gland. Hydrocortisone is a corticosteroid medication that can be used to treat a range of conditions, including hormone imbalances. It is not uncommon for individuals with certain endocrine disorders to require lifelong medication to manage their condition. Hydrocortisone is a synthetic form of the hormone cortisol, which is naturally produced by the adrenal glands. When used in appropriate doses and under medical supervision, it can be safe and effective. However, long-term use of corticosteroids, even at low doses, can have potential side effects. Some common side effects of Hydrocortisone include weight gain, increased appetite, mood changes, and changes in hair growth patterns. Given that your son has been taking Hydrocortisone for several years, it is important to monitor his growth and development regularly and have regular check-ups with his endocrinologist. They have likely considered the long-term effects and believe that the benefits of the medication outweigh the potential risks in his case.

I hope this information helps, and I wish you and your son all the best.

Thank you.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Vandana Andrews
Dr. Vandana Andrews

General Practitioner

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