Hydrocortisone
Ulcerative Colitis, Contact Dermatitis ... show more
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
YES
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
Corticosteroid
Controlled Drug Substance
NO
Hydrocortisone
Learn more about this medicine -
Click HereSummary
Hydrocortisone is used to treat inflammation and immune-related conditions like arthritis, allergies, asthma, and adrenal insufficiency. It helps reduce swelling, pain, and allergic reactions associated with these conditions.
Hydrocortisone works by mimicking cortisol, a natural hormone produced by our adrenal glands. It helps to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system, thereby alleviating symptoms like swelling, redness, and pain.
Adults typically take 20 to 240 mg of Hydrocortisone per day, divided into multiple doses. For children, the dose is determined by body weight and the specific condition, often ranging from 0.5 to 2 mg per kg per day.
Common side effects of Hydrocortisone include increased appetite, weight gain, and mood changes. Serious effects can include high blood pressure, increased risk of infections, and osteoporosis. If you experience any concerning symptoms, report them to your doctor.
Hydrocortisone should be used with caution in people with infections, diabetes, or high blood pressure. Avoid abrupt discontinuation to prevent withdrawal symptoms. Always follow your doctor's instructions and report any unusual symptoms.
Indications and Purpose
How does Hydrocortisone work?
Hydrocortisone works by mimicking the effects of cortisol, a natural hormone that reduces inflammation and suppresses the immune system. This action helps alleviate symptoms like swelling, redness, and itching, providing relief from various inflammatory conditions.
How does one know if Hydrocortisone is working?
Hydrocortisone is used to treat conditions like inflammation and allergies. You can tell it's working if you notice a reduction in symptoms like swelling, redness, or itching. Regular monitoring by a healthcare provider may be necessary to assess its effectiveness.
Is Hydrocortisone effective?
Hydrocortisone is effective for reducing inflammation and treating conditions like allergies, skin problems, and arthritis. It works by mimicking the effects of hormones your body naturally produces to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system.
What is Hydrocortisone?
Hydrocortisone is a medication used to treat inflammation and allergic reactions. It is also used for conditions like arthritis and skin problems. It works by mimicking natural hormones to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system.
What is Hydrocortisone used for?
Hydrocortisone is used to treat conditions like inflammation, allergies, and arthritis. It helps reduce symptoms like swelling, redness, and itching. It can be used alone or with other treatments, depending on the condition.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Hydrocortisone?
Hydrocortisone is used for both long-term management of chronic conditions and short-term treatment of acute symptoms. The duration of use depends on the condition being treated. For chronic conditions, it may be used long-term, while for acute conditions, it might be used for a shorter period. Always follow your prescriber's instructions for the duration of use.
How do I dispose of Hydrocortisone?
If you can, bring unused medicines to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. They will dispose of this medicine properly so they don't harm people or the environment. If you can't find a take-back program, you can throw most medicines in the trash at home. But first, take them out of their original containers, mix them with something undesirable like used coffee grounds, seal the mixture in a plastic bag and throw it away.
How do I take Hydrocortisone?
Take Hydrocortisone with food to reduce stomach upset. It is usually taken once or twice daily, depending on your doctor's instructions. There are no specific dietary restrictions, but always follow your healthcare provider's advice.
How long does it take for Hydrocortisone to start working?
Hydrocortisone typically starts working within a few hours, but it may take a few days to achieve its full effect. Individual factors like metabolism and the condition being treated can affect the onset of action. Always follow your prescriber's instructions.
How should I store Hydrocortisone?
Store Hydrocortisone at room temperature, away from moisture and light. Keep it out of reach of children. Avoid storing it in the bathroom or near a sink to prevent exposure to moisture.
What is the usual dose of Hydrocortisone?
The usual starting dose of Hydrocortisone for adults varies depending on the condition being treated. It is typically taken once or twice daily. The dose may be adjusted based on the patient's response and needs. The maximum recommended dose should not be exceeded. For children or the elderly, dose adjustments may be necessary. Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions for dosing.
Warnings and Precautions
Can Hydrocortisone be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Hydrocortisone is excreted into breast milk, but in small amounts. There is limited information on its effects on breastfed infants or milk supply. Due to insufficient evidence, it's important to consult a healthcare provider before using Hydrocortisone while breastfeeding to ensure safety for both mother and child.
Can Hydrocortisone be taken safely while pregnant?
The safety of Hydrocortisone during pregnancy is not well-established. There is limited data on its effects, and it should only be used if the benefits outweigh the risks. It's crucial to consult a healthcare provider before using Hydrocortisone during pregnancy to ensure the safety of both mother and baby.
Can I take Hydrocortisone with other prescription drugs?
Hydrocortisone can interact with drugs like NSAIDs, increasing the risk of stomach ulcers, and with blood thinners, affecting their efficacy. It's important to inform your healthcare provider about all medications you're taking to avoid potential interactions.
Can I take Hydrocortisone with vitamins or supplements?
Confirmed interactions with Hydrocortisone include supplements like St. John's Wort, which can reduce its effectiveness. Hydrocortisone may also cause nutrient depletion, such as calcium and vitamin D, necessitating supplementation. It's crucial to monitor nutrient levels and inform healthcare providers about all medications and supplements being taken.
Does Hydrocortisone have adverse effects?
Adverse effects are harmful or unintended reactions to a medication. Hydrocortisone can cause adverse effects like high blood pressure, increased blood sugar, and weakened bones. These effects are concerning and may require medical attention. Rare but serious effects include severe allergic reactions. Always report new symptoms to a healthcare provider and consult them before stopping the medication.
Does Hydrocortisone have any safety warnings?
Hydrocortisone has safety warnings related to its potential to cause high blood pressure, increased blood sugar, and weakened bones. It's important to monitor for these symptoms and consult a healthcare provider if they occur.
Is Hydrocortisone addictive?
Hydrocortisone has no known potential for dependence or addiction. It is not considered habit-forming.
Is Hydrocortisone safe for the elderly?
Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of Hydrocortisone, particularly its potential to cause high blood pressure, increased blood sugar, and weakened bones. It's important to monitor these symptoms and consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Hydrocortisone?
Occasional or moderate alcohol consumption is generally considered safe while taking Hydrocortisone. There are no well-established interactions between Hydrocortisone and alcohol. However, alcohol can exacerbate some side effects of Hydrocortisone, such as mood changes or stomach upset. It's advisable to limit alcohol intake and consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Hydrocortisone?
Most people tolerate Hydrocortisone well, and it should not limit your ability to exercise. However, if you experience symptoms like fatigue or weakness during physical activity, consult a healthcare provider.
Is it safe to stop Hydrocortisone?
Hydrocortisone is often used for managing chronic conditions, and stopping it abruptly can lead to withdrawal symptoms or a return of the condition. It's important to consult a doctor before stopping, as they may recommend a gradual reduction in dosage to avoid complications.
What are the most common side effects of Hydrocortisone?
A side effect is an unwanted symptom caused by medical treatment. Common side effects of Hydrocortisone include increased appetite, mood changes, and trouble sleeping. These effects are generally mild and may occur in more than 10% of users. It's important to note that new symptoms can appear when starting any new medication, and they might not be related to the medicine itself. Always consult a healthcare provider before stopping any medication.
Who should avoid taking Hydrocortisone?
Absolute contraindications for Hydrocortisone include known allergies to the medication. Relative contraindications include conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and osteoporosis, where caution is needed. Always inform your healthcare provider about your medical history before starting Hydrocortisone.
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