<s>[INST] Is cortisone still used? [/INST] Cortisone-derived medications (usually prednisone or prednisolone) can be helpful in stages when the arthritis is getting worse or if certain complications arise. In the initial phases of the disease, these are used as bridge therapy while the patient is waiting for DMARDs to take effect. They are discontinued when remission is achieved as they have important adverse effects (overweight, osteoporosis, infections, diabetes, etc.). However, some patients do continue to receive them for long periods of time. At low doses, there are no major side effects and they are effective. Source: Clinic Barcelona. Link: https://www.clinicbarcelona.org/en/assistance/diseases/rheumatoid-arthritis/frequently-asked-questions. Field: Rheumatology. Disease: Arthritis </s>