Cortisone is a corticosteroid hormone (glucocorticoid). It decreases your bodys natural defensive response and reduces symptoms such as swelling and allergic-type reactions. Cortisone is used as an anti-inflammatory medication. Hydrocortisone relieves inflammation in various parts of the body. Cortisone is used to treat or prevent allergic reactions. Cortisone is used as treatment of certain kinds of autoimmune diseases, skin conditions, asthma and other lung conditions.