hydrocortisone topical (Rx, OTC)

Brand and Other Names:Westcort, Locoid, more...Aquanil, Calmurid Cream, Cetacort, Claritin Skin Itch Relief, Coraz, CortaGel, Cortaid, Cortate, Cortisone-10 Poison Ivy Relief Pads, Cortisone-10 Quick Shot, Cortizone, Cortoderm, Dermacort, Dermazene Cream, DermiCort, Emo Cort, Hyderm, Hydrocort, HydroSKIN, HydroVal, Hytone, LactiCare, AlaCort, Locoid Lipocream, Massengill, Neosporin Eczema Essentials Anti-Itch Cream, Nutracort, Pediaderm HC, Penecort, Preparation H Anti-Itch Cream, Prevex HC, Proctocort, Proctocream, Sarna HC, Sarnol, Texacort, Timodine, Uniroid HC, AlaScalpt

Dosing & Uses

AdultPediatric

Dosage Forms & Strengths

topical cream

  • 0.1%
  • 0.2%
  • 0.5%
  • 1%
  • 2.5%

topical lotion

  • 0.1%
  • 1%
  • 2%
  • 2.5%

topical gel

  • 1%
  • 10%

topical solution

  • 1%
  • 2.5%

topical ointment

  • 0.2%
  • 0.5%
  • 1%
  • 2.5%

Atopic Dermatitis

Apply thin film to affected area BID

Corticosteroid-responsive Dermatoses

Relief of inflammatory and pruritic manifestations

Hydrocortisone base: q6-12hr

Hydrocortisone acetate: q6-12hr

Hydrocortisone butyrate: q8-12hr

Hydrocortisone valerate: q8-12hr

Dosage Forms & Strengths

topical cream

  • 0.1%
  • 0.2%
  • 0.5%
  • 1%
  • 2.5%

topical lotion

  • 0.5%
  • 1%
  • 2%
  • 2.5%

topical gel

  • 1%

topical solution

  • 1%
  • 2.5%

topical ointment

  • 0.2%
  • 0.5%
  • 1%
  • 2.5%

Corticosteroid-responsive Dermatoses

Relief of inflammatory and pruritic manifestations

Infants, children, and adolescents; products for OTC use are not labeled for use in children <2 years

Hydrocortisone base: q6-12hr

Hydrocortisone acetate: q6-12hr

Hydrocortisone butyrate: q8-12hr

Dosing considerations

  • Limit to the minimum amount necessary for therapeutic efficacy

Atopic Dermatitis

<3 months: Safety and efficacy not established

≥3 months: Apply film to affected area q12hr

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Adverse Effects

Frequency Not Defined

Skin atrophy

Striae

Acneform lesions

Perioral dermatitis

Folliculitis

Itching

Pigmentation changes

HPA suppression (with higher potency used >2 wk)

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Warnings

Contraindications

Underlying infection

Hypersensitivity

Ophthalmic use

Treatment of diaper dermatitis

Cautions

Chronic topical corticosteroid therapy may interfere with growth and development in children

Use lower potency in children; may absorb proportionally larger amounts after topical application and may cause systemic effects

Occlusive dressings, prolonged use, application to large surface areas, or application to denuded skin, may increase percutaneous absorption, which may result in Cushing syndrome, glycosuria, and hyperglycemia

Prolonged use may increase risk of Kaposi's sarcoma

Prolonged use may increase risk of secondary infection, may mask acute infection, limit response to vaccines, and prolong or exacerbate viral infections; avoid exposure to measles or chickenpox while receiving therapy; not for the treatment of ocular herpes simplex, cerebral malaria, fungal infections, or viral hepatitis; observe patients with latent tuberculosis closely; restrict use in active tuberculosis

Acute myopathy reported with high dose corticosteroids, especially patients with neuromuscular transmission disorders

Psychiatric disturbances including euphoria, insomnia, mood swings, and personality changes reported with corticosteroid use

Allergic contact dermatitis may occur; diagnosed as failure to heal rather than exacerbation; discontinue therapy and treat appropriately if it occurs

May suppress hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, especially in patients receiving high doses for prolonged periods of time and younger children, which may result in adrenal crisis

Anaphylactoid reactions reported in patients receiving corticosteroids

Local desensitization (irritation, redness) reported; discontinue if it occurs

Use caution in patients with diabetes, cardiovascular disease, hepatic impairment, myocardial infarction, myasthenia gravis, osteoporosis, ocular disease, renal impairment, or thyroid disease

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Pregnancy & Lactation

Pregnancy

There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women on teratogenic effects from topically applied corticosteroids; corticosteroids generally teratogenic in laboratory animals when administered systemically at relatively low dosage levels; topical corticosteroids should be used during pregnancy only if potential benefits justify potential risk to fetus; should not be used extensively on pregnant patients, in large amounts, or for prolonged periods of time

Lactation

Not know whether topical administration could result in sufficient systemic absorption to produce detectable quantities in breast milk; systemically administered corticosteroids are secreted into breast milk in quantities not likely to have deleterious effect on infant; nevertheless, caution should be exercised when topical corticosteroids are administered to a nursing woman

Pregnancy Categories

A: Generally acceptable. Controlled studies in pregnant women show no evidence of fetal risk.

B: May be acceptable. Either animal studies show no risk but human studies not available or animal studies showed minor risks and human studies done and showed no risk.

C: Use with caution if benefits outweigh risks. Animal studies show risk and human studies not available or neither animal nor human studies done.

D: Use in LIFE-THREATENING emergencies when no safer drug available. Positive evidence of human fetal risk.

X: Do not use in pregnancy. Risks involved outweigh potential benefits. Safer alternatives exist.

NA: Information not available.

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Pharmacology

Mechanism of Action

Decreases inflammation by stabilizing leukocyte lysosomal membranes, preventing release of destructive acid hydrolases from leukocytes

Inhibits macrophage accumulation in inflamed areas

Reduces leukocyte adhesion to capillary endothelium

Reduces capillary wall permeability and edema formation

Decreases complement components and antagonizes histamine activity and release of kinin from substrates

Reduces fibroblast proliferation, collagen deposition, and subsequent scar tissue formation

Absorption

Percutaneous; extent of absorption in dependent on formulation, epidermal integrity (intact vs abraded), and the use of occlusive dressings

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Images

BRAND FORM. UNIT PRICE PILL IMAGE
Anusol-HC rectal
-
25 mg suppos
Anusol-HC rectal
-
25 mg suppos
ITCH-X topical
-
1-10 % liquid
ITCH-X topical
-
1-10 % gel
Pramosone topical
-
2.5-1 % cream
Pramosone topical
-
1-1 % lotion
Pramosone topical
-
2.5-1 % lotion
Pramosone topical
-
2.5-1 % cream
Pramosone topical
-
1-1 % lotion
Pramosone topical
-
2.5-1 % lotion
Pramosone topical
-
1-1 % cream
Pramosone topical
-
1-1 % cream
Texacort topical
-
2.5 % solution
Ala-Cort topical
-
1 % cream
Alkindi Sprinkle oral
-
0.5 mg capsule
Alkindi Sprinkle oral
-
5 mg capsule
Scalacort topical
-
2 % lotion
Aquanil HC topical
-
1 % lotion
Cortenema rectal
-
100 mg/60 mL enema
Cortenema rectal
-
100 mg/60 mL enema
hydrocortisone topical
-
1 % cream
hydrocortisone topical
-
1 % cream
hydrocortisone topical
-
1 % cream
hydrocortisone topical
-
0.5 % cream
hydrocortisone topical
-
0.5 % cream
hydrocortisone topical
-
1 % ointment
hydrocortisone topical
-
1 % cream
hydrocortisone topical
-
1 % cream
hydrocortisone topical
-
2.5 % ointment
hydrocortisone topical
-
2.5 % ointment
hydrocortisone topical
-
2.5 % ointment
hydrocortisone topical
-
1 % ointment
hydrocortisone topical
-
1 % cream
hydrocortisone topical
-
2.5 % cream
hydrocortisone topical
-
2.5 % lotion
hydrocortisone topical
-
2.5 % lotion
hydrocortisone topical
-
1 % ointment
hydrocortisone topical
-
2.5 % ointment
hydrocortisone topical
-
2.5 % cream
hydrocortisone topical
-
1 % ointment
hydrocortisone topical
-
2.5 % lotion
hydrocortisone topical
-
0.5 % ointment
hydrocortisone topical
-
2.5 % cream
hydrocortisone topical
-
2.5 % cream
hydrocortisone topical
-
1 % ointment
hydrocortisone topical
-
1 % cream
hydrocortisone topical
-
2.5 % cream
hydrocortisone topical
-
1 % cream
hydrocortisone topical
-
1 % ointment
hydrocortisone topical
-
1 % cream
hydrocortisone topical
-
2.5 % cream
hydrocortisone topical
-
2.5 % cream
hydrocortisone topical
-
1 % cream
hydrocortisone topical
-
1 % cream
hydrocortisone topical
-
2.5 % cream
hydrocortisone topical
-
2.5 % cream
hydrocortisone topical
-
1 % cream
hydrocortisone topical
-
1 % lotion
hydrocortisone topical
-
1 % cream
hydrocortisone topical
-
1 % cream
Ala-Scalp topical
-
2 % lotion
Cortizone-10 topical
-
1 % gel
Cortizone-10 topical
-
1 % ointment
Cortizone-10 topical
-
1 % cream
Cortizone-10 topical
-
1 % lotion
Cortizone-10 topical
-
1 % lotion
Cortizone-10 topical
-
1 % cream
Cortizone-10 topical
-
1 % cream
Proctozone-HC topical
-
2.5 % cream
Proctozone-HC topical
-
2.5 % cream
Cortef oral
-
20 mg tablet
Cortef oral
-
10 mg tablet
Cortef oral
-
5 mg tablet
hydrocortisone oral
-
10 mg tablet
hydrocortisone oral
-
20 mg tablet
hydrocortisone oral
-
10 mg tablet
hydrocortisone oral
-
5 mg tablet
hydrocortisone oral
-
20 mg tablet
hydrocortisone oral
-
5 mg tablet
hydrocortisone oral
-
10 mg tablet
hydrocortisone oral
-
20 mg tablet
hydrocortisone oral
-
5 mg tablet
Cortisone (hydrocortisone) topical
-
1 % cream
Procto-Med HC topical
-
2.5 % cream
Proctocort topical
-
1 % cream
Anusol-HC topical
-
2.5 % cream
Proctosol HC topical
-
2.5 % cream
Cortizone-10 Plus topical
-
1 % cream
hydrocortisone rectal
-
100 mg/60 mL enema

Copyright © 2010 First DataBank, Inc.

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Patient Education
hydrocortisone topical

HYDROCORTISONE - TOPICAL

(HYE-droe-KOR-ti-sone)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Aquanil HC, Cetacort, Cortaid, Hytone

USES: This medication is used to treat a variety of skin conditions (such as insect bites, poison oak/ivy, eczema, dermatitis, allergies, rash, itching of the outer female genitals, anal itching). Hydrocortisone reduces the swelling, itching, and redness that can occur in these types of conditions. This medication is a mild corticosteroid.

HOW TO USE: 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 product that is best for you.Use this medication on the skin only. However, do not use it on the face or underarms unless directed to do so by your doctor. Some products are meant to be used on the scalp for various conditions. To correctly use these products, follow the directions 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 just before using. If you are using the spray, check the product package to see if it needs to be shaken before each use. Apply a small amount of medication to the affected area and gently rub in, usually up to 4 times a day or as directed by your doctor or the product package. Dosage and length of treatment depends on the type of condition being treated. Do not bandage, cover, or wrap the area unless directed to do so by your doctor. If used in or near the diaper area on an infant, do not use tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants.After applying the medication, wash your hands, unless the hands are being treated. Avoid getting this medication in the eyes, nose, or mouth. If you get the medication in these areas, rinse with plenty of water. If irritation occurs or continues, contact your doctor right away.Use this medication only for the condition for which it was prescribed or a condition that is listed on the product package. Do not use it for longer than directed by the product package or your doctor.Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse after 7 days or if you think you may have a serious medical problem.

SIDE EFFECTS: Stinging, burning, irritation, dryness, or redness at the application site may occur. Acne, unusual hair growth, small red bumps on the skin (folliculitis), skin thinning/discoloration, or stretch marks may also occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, remember that your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.If the treated area starts to bleed, especially if you are using this product for anal itching, contact your doctor right away.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

PRECAUTIONS: Before using hydrocortisone, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other corticosteroids (such as prednisone, triamcinolone); or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.If you have any health problems, consult your doctor or pharmacist before using this product.If you have itching of the outer female genitals with vaginal discharge, consult your doctor before using this product.Do not use if there is an infection or sore in the area to be treated. Skin infections can become worse when this medication is used. Tell your doctor promptly if redness, swelling, or irritation does not improve.Children may be more sensitive to the effects of too much corticosteroid medication. Consult your doctor for more details.During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk when applied to the skin. Similar medications pass into breast milk when taken by mouth. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.

OVERDOSE: This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.

NOTES: Do not share this medication with others.If prescribed by your doctor, use this medication for your current condition only. Do not use it later for other skin problems unless told to do so by your doctor. A different medication may be necessary in those cases.Keep all medical and lab appointments.

MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

STORAGE: Refer to the storage information printed on the package. Protect from light and moisture. If you have any questions about storage, ask your pharmacist. Keep all medications away from children and pets.Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

Information last revised May 2023. Copyright(c) 2023 First Databank, Inc.

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

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Tier Description
1 This drug is available at the lowest co-pay. Most commonly, these are generic drugs.
2 This drug is available at a middle level co-pay. Most commonly, these are "preferred" (on formulary) brand drugs.
3 This drug is available at a higher level co-pay. Most commonly, these are "non-preferred" brand drugs.
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5 This drug is available at a higher level co-pay. Most commonly, these are "non-preferred" brand drugs or specialty prescription products.
6 This drug is available at a higher level co-pay. Most commonly, these are "non-preferred" brand drugs or specialty prescription products.
NC NOT COVERED – Drugs that are not covered by the plan.
Code Definition
PA Prior Authorization
Drugs that require prior authorization. This restriction requires that specific clinical criteria be met prior to the approval of the prescription.
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Drugs that have quantity limits associated with each prescription. This restriction typically limits the quantity of the drug that will be covered.
ST Step Therapy
Drugs that have step therapy associated with each prescription. This restriction typically requires that certain criteria be met prior to approval for the prescription.
OR Other Restrictions
Drugs that have restrictions other than prior authorization, quantity limits, and step therapy associated with each prescription.
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Medscape prescription drug monographs are based on FDA-approved labeling information, unless otherwise noted, combined with additional data derived from primary medical literature.