What is Hydrocortisone?

Hydrocortisone is a prescription medication which comes in various forms, it includes oral tablets also. Hydrocortisone tablets are available as drug name called Cortef and in various generic forms. In some of the cases, it may not be available in every strength or form as the brand name drug.


Hydrocortisone Uses

Hydrocortisone is used for treating an adrenocortical deficiency, swelling, and inflammation and to slow down the immune system. The medication is approved for:

  • Rheumatic disorders
  • Stomach or intestinal disorders
  • Collagen disorders
  • Endocrine disorders
  • Respiratory disorders

Hydrocortisone Side Effects

Most common side effects of Hydrocortisone are:

  • Burning, itching, irritation, redness
  • Acne
  • Unwanted hair growth
  • Skin colour changes
  • Tiny red bumps
  • Small white and red bumps

Some of the most serious side effects of Hydrocortisone are:

  • Skin rash
  • Hives
  • Breathing problems
  • Fever
  • Sore throat
  • Sneezing
  • Cough
  • Wounds that won’t heal
  • Pain while urinating
  • Depression
  • Mood swings
  • Vomiting

If you have any of these serious symptoms immediately contact your doctor for further assistance. In any case, due to Hydrocortisone if you get any kind of reactions in your body try avoiding it.

A doctor advised you to take the medicines by seeing your problems and the benefits of this medicine are greater than the side effects. Majority of the people who use this medicine don’t show any side effects. Get medical help immediately if you get any serious Hydrocortisone side effects.


Precautions

Before using Hydrocortisone talk to your doctor if you are allergic to it or any other medications. The product contains some inactive ingredients that can cause some allergic reactions or some other problems.

If you are having any medical history or health problems talk with your doctor.

If you have itching on the outer layer of the genitals with vaginal discharge then consult with your doctor immediately.

Avoid using the medication if you are having any infection or sore in the treatment area. If you are having skin infection then Hydrocortisone can make things worse. Talk to your doctor if you are having redness, swelling and irritation.


How to take Hydrocortisone?

There are many hydrocortisone products available. Many can be purchased without a prescription. Some products require a prescription. Consult your doctor or pharmacist on the choice of the most suitable product for you.

Use this medicine only on the skin. However, do not use it on the face or armpits unless instructed to do so by your doctor. Some products are designed to be used on the scalp for a variety of conditions. To use these products correctly, follow the instructions on the product package.

Wash and dry your hands before using. Clean and dry the affected area. If you are using the lotion or foam, shake it well before use. If you are using the spray, check the product package to see if you need to shake it before each use. Apply a small amount of medicine to the affected area and rub in gently, usually up to 4 times a day or as directed by your doctor or the product package. The dose and duration of treatment depend on the type of condition being treated. Do not bandage, cover, or wrap the area unless your doctor tells you to. If used in or near the diaper area on an infant, do not use tight-fitting diapers or plastic briefs.


Dosage

Generic :Hydrocortisone (tablet - 5 mg, 10 mg, and 20 mg)

Brand :Cortef (tablet - 5 mg, 10 mg, and 20 mg)


Missed Dose

Missing one or two-doses of hydrocortisone n won’t show any effect on your body. The skipped dose causes no problem. But with some medication, it won’t work if you don’t take the dosage on time. If you miss a dose some sudden chemical change may affect your body. In some cases, your doctor would advise you to take the prescribed medicine as soon as possible if you have missed the dose.


Overdose

Overdose of a drug can be accidental. If you have taken more than the prescribed hydrocortisone tablets there is a chance of getting a harmful effect on your body’s functions. Overdose of a medicine can lead to some medical emergency.


Allergy warnings

  • Skin rash
  • Itching
  • Hives
  • Swelling of the face
  • Breathing problems

Warnings for some serious health conditions

  • For people with glaucoma:Hydrocortisone can increase pressure in the eyes. This can make your glaucoma worse. Your doctor may examine your eyes regularly if you take this medicine.
  • For people with liver problems:Hydrocortisone breaks down in the liver. If you have severe liver disease, it can build up in your body and have dangerous effects.

Storage

Direct contact with heat, air and light may damage your medicines. The exposure of medicine may cause some harmful effects. The medicine must be kept in a safe place and out of children’s reach.

Mainly the drug should be kept at room temperature between 68ºF and 77ºF (20ºC and 25ºC).

Before taking Hydrocortisone consult your Doctor. In case if you face any problems or get any side effects after taking Hydrocortisone rush immediately to your nearby hospital or consult your doctor for better treatment. Carry your medications always in your bag while travelling to avoid any immediate emergencies. Follow your prescription and follow your Doctor advice whenever you take Hydrocortisone.


Hydrocortisone vs Methylprednisolone

Hydrocortisone

Methylprednisolone

Hydrocortisone is a prescription medication which comes in various forms, it includes oral tablets also. Hydrocortisone tablets are available as drug name called Cortef and in various generic forms. Methylprednisolone is a corticosteroid medicine which prevents the release of a substance in the body which leads to inflammation.
The medication is approved for:
  • Rheumatic disorders
  • Stomach or intestinal disorders
  • Collagen disorders
  • Endocrine disorders
The medication helps in decreasing the immune system response to various diseases for reducing symptoms such as swelling, pain and allergic-type reactions. Methylprednisolone is also used with other medications for hormone disorders.
Some of the serious side effects of Hydrocortisone are:
  • Skin rash
  • Hives
  • Breathing problems
  • Fever
  • Sore Throat
  • Sneezing
  • Cough
Some of the serious side effects of Methylprednisolone are:
  • Shortness of breath
  • Swelling
  • Bruising
  • Blurred vision
  • Eye pain
  • Depression
  • Unusual pain in arms and legs

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is hydrocortisone used for?

The medication is approved for:

  • Rheumatic disorders
  • Stomach or intestinal disorders
  • Collagen disorders
  • Endocrine disorders

What are the side effects of hydrocortisone?

Some of the most serious side effects of Hydrocortisone are:

  • Skin rash
  • Hives
  • Breathing problems
  • Fever
  • Sore Throat
  • Sneezing
  • Cough

How does hydrocortisone cream work?

Wash and dry your hands before using. Clean and dry the affected area. If you are using the lotion or foam, shake it well before use. If you are using the spray, check the product package to see if you need to shake it before each use. Apply a small amount of medicine to the affected area and rub in gently, usually up to 4 times a day or as directed by your doctor or the product package. The dose and duration of treatment depend on the type of condition being treated.


Disclaimer: The information provided herein is accurate, updated and complete as per the best practices of the Company. Please note that this information should not be treated as a replacement for physical medical consultation or advice. We do not guarantee the accuracy and the completeness of the information so provided. The absence of any information and/or warning to any drug shall not be considered and assumed as an implied assurance of the Company. We do not take any responsibility for the consequences arising out of the aforementioned information and strongly recommend you for a physical consultation in case of any queries or doubts.