by 
The Curious Bag
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Topical cortisone is routinely prescribed for dogs who suffer from "hot spots," or itchy, sore areas on the dog's body. As tempting as it may be to reach for cortisone as treatment, there are side effects to consider.
Hair Loss
Topical cortisone often causes hair loss around the area being treated.
Thinning Of The Skin
Thinning skin sometimes breaks open, subjecting your pet to an increased risk of infection.
Muscle Weakness
Although it is applied to the skin, cortisone creams are absorbed into the bloodstream. It is not uncommon for a dog to show signs of muscle weakness after being treated.
Liver and Stomach Problems
It often takes time for a pet owner to notice that their pet is suffering from stomach problems, so by the time they are diagnosed the connection to cortisone is lost. Studies show, however, that the use of cortisone is linked to these illnesses.
Cushing's Disease
It's important not to use topical cortisone on a long term basis as it is believed to cause Cushing's Disease, a sometimes dangerous condition that is marked by the production of too much adrenal hormone.
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