Hydrocortisone: Uses, Side Effects And Precautions
Hydrocortisone is a prescription medication that comes in various forms, including oral tablets. Hydrocortisone tablets are available under the brand name Cortef and in generic forms. It may not be available in every strength or form as the brand name drug.
Hydrocortisone Uses
Hydrocortisone is used to treat:
- Adrenocortical deficiency
- Swelling and inflammation
- 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
Common side effects:
- Burning, itching, irritation, redness
- Acne
- Unwanted hair growth
- Skin color changes
- Tiny red bumps
- Small white and red bumps
Serious side effects:
- Skin rash
- Hives
- Breathing problems
- Fever
- Sore throat
- Sneezing
- Cough
- Wounds that won’t heal
- Pain while urinating
- Depression
- Mood swings
- Vomiting
If you experience any serious symptoms, immediately contact your doctor.
Precautions
Before using Hydrocortisone, talk to your doctor if you are allergic to it or any other medications. Inform your doctor of your medical history, especially if you have:
- Itching on the outer layer of the genitals with vaginal discharge
- Infection or sore in the treatment area
- Skin infection (Hydrocortisone can make it worse)
How to Take Hydrocortisone?
There are many hydrocortisone products available, some without a prescription. Consult your doctor or pharmacist on the most suitable product for you.
Use this medicine only on the skin, unless instructed otherwise by your doctor. Follow the instructions on the product package.
Instructions:
- Wash and dry your hands before using.
- Clean and dry the affected area.
- Shake lotion or foam well before use; check if the spray needs shaking.
- Apply a small amount of medicine to the affected area and rub in gently, usually up to 4 times a day or as directed.
- Do not bandage, cover, or wrap the area unless advised by your doctor.
- If used in the diaper area on an infant, avoid 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 won’t typically cause issues, but try to take the prescribed medicine as soon as possible if you have missed a dose.
Overdose
Overdose of a drug can be accidental. If you take more than the prescribed hydrocortisone tablets, it can harm your body’s functions. Seek immediate medical attention in case of an overdose.
Allergy Warnings
Symptoms:
- Skin rash
- Itching
- Hives
- Swelling of the face
- Breathing problems
Warnings for Serious Health Conditions
- For people with glaucoma: Hydrocortisone can increase eye pressure, worsening glaucoma.
- For people with liver problems: Hydrocortisone breaks down in the liver. Severe liver disease can cause it to build up in the body.
Storage
Store the medicine at room temperature between 68ºF and 77ºF (20ºC and 25ºC). Keep it away from heat, air, and light, and out of children’s reach.
Hydrocortisone vs. Methylprednisolone
| Hydrocortisone | Methylprednisolone |
| Hydrocortisone is a prescription medication available in various forms, including oral tablets. | Methylprednisolone is a corticosteroid that prevents the release of substances causing inflammation. |
| Approved for: Rheumatic disorders, stomach or intestinal disorders, collagen disorders, endocrine disorders | Decreases immune system response to reduce symptoms like swelling, pain, and allergic reactions. Used with other medications for hormone disorders. |
| Serious side effects: Skin rash, hives, breathing problems, fever, sore throat, sneezing, cough | Serious side effects: Shortness of breath, swelling, bruising, blurred vision, eye pain, depression, unusual pain in arms and legs |
