DrugindexOnline^{2nd edition}

Generic name:
Brand names: Hytone, Nutracort, Hydrocortisone Skin Preparations, Cetacort

Why is Hydrocortisone Skin Preparations prescribed?

Hydrocortisone creams and lotions contain a steroid medication that relieves a variety of itchy rashes and inflammatory skin conditions.

Most important fact about Hydrocortisone Skin Preparations

When you apply a hydrocortisone cream or lotion, you inevitably absorb some of the medication through your skin and into the bloodstream. Too much absorption can lead to unwanted side effects elsewhere in the body. To keep this problem to a minimum, avoid using large amounts of hydrocortisone over extensive areas, and do not cover it with airtight dressings such as plastic wrap or adhesive bandages unless specifically told to by your doctor.

How should you use medication?

Use hydrocortisone exactly as directed, and only to treat the condition for which your doctor prescribed it.

Apply the medication directly to the affected area. Hydrocortisone cream and lotion are for use only on the skin. Be careful to keep them out of your eyes.

If you are using hydrocortisone for psoriasis or a condition that has been difficult to cure, your doctor may advise you to use a bandage or covering over the affected area. If an infection develops, remove the bandage and contact your doctor.

--If you miss a dose...

Apply it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule.

--Storage instructions...

Keep the container tightly closed, and store it at room temperature, away from heat. Protect from freezing.

What side effects may occur?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue using hydrocortisone.

• Side effects may include:
  Acne-like skin eruptions, burning, dryness, growth of excessive hair, inflammation of the hair follicles, inflammation around the mouth, irritation, itching, peeling skin, prickly heat, secondary infection, skin inflammation, skin softening, stretch marks, unusual lack of skin color

Why should Hydrocortisone Skin Preparations not be prescribed?

Do not use Hydrocortisone if it has ever given you an allergic reaction.

Special warnings about Hydrocortisone Skin Preparations

Avoid covering a treated area with waterproof diapers or plastic pants. They can increase unwanted absorption of hydrocortisone.

If you use Hydrocortisone Skin Preparations over large areas of skin for prolonged periods of time--or cover the treated area--the amount of the hormone absorbed into your bloodstream may eventually lead to Cushing's syndrome: a moon-faced appearance, fattened neck and trunk, and purplish streaks on the skin. You can also develop glandular problems or high blood sugar, or show sugar in your urine. Children, because of their relatively larger ratio of skin surface area to body weight, are particularly susceptible to overabsorption of hydrocortisone.

Long-term treatment of children with steroids such as hydrocortisone may interfere with growth and development.

If an irritation develops, stop using the medication and contact your doctor.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Hydrocortisone Skin Preparations

No interactions have been reported.

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

The effects of hydrocortisone during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. It is not known whether Hydrocortisone Skin Preparations appears in breast milk in sufficient amounts to affect a nursing baby. To avoid any possible harm to your baby, use hydrocortisone sparingly, and only with your doctor's permission, when breastfeeding.

Recommended dosage

ADULTS

Apply hydrocortisone cream or lotion to the affected area 2 to 4 times a day, depending on the severity of the condition.

CHILDREN

Limit use to the least amount necessary, as directed by your doctor.

Overdosage

Extensive or long-term use can cause Cushing's syndrome (see "Special warnings about Hydrocortisone Skin Preparations"), glandular problems, higher than normal amounts of sugar in the blood, and high amounts of sugar in the urine. If you suspect an overdose of hydrocortisone, seek medical treatment immediately.