Why is this medication prescribed?

Hydrocortisone topical is prescribed for various skin conditions where inflammation, itching, and redness are present. It is commonly used to treat conditions such as eczema, dermatitis (including contact dermatitis), insect bites, allergic reactions, and other skin irritations. Hydrocortisone belongs to a class of medications known as corticosteroids, which work by reducing inflammation.

How should this medicine be used?

Here’s how hydrocortisone topical should generally be used:

• Clean the Affected Area: Before applying hydrocortisone cream or ointment, wash the affected skin gently with mild soap and water. Pat the skin dry with a soft towel.
• Apply a Thin Layer: Take a small amount of hydrocortisone cream or ointment (typically a pea-sized amount is sufficient) and apply it thinly to the affected area. It’s important to spread it evenly over the skin.
• Rub in Gently: Use your fingertips to gently rub the cream or ointment into the skin until it is absorbed. Avoid vigorous rubbing, especially if the skin is inflamed or sensitive.
• Frequency of Application: Follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider or the directions on the product label. In general, hydrocortisone is applied 1 to 4 times daily, depending on the severity of the condition and the formulation used (cream vs. ointment).
• Wash Hands: After applying the cream or ointment, wash your hands thoroughly to remove any residue. This helps prevent accidental contact with sensitive areas like the eyes.
• Avoid Certain Areas: Avoid applying hydrocortisone cream or ointment near the eyes, mouth, or other mucous membranes unless specifically instructed by your doctor.
• Do Not Bandage: Unless directed by your healthcare provider, do not cover the treated area with bandages or dressings. This can increase the absorption of the medication and may lead to unwanted side effects.
• Monitor Progress: Keep track of how your skin responds to the treatment. If there is no improvement or if the condition worsens, consult your healthcare provider.

Other uses for this medicine

Apart from relieving inflammation and itching associated with skin conditions like eczema, dermatitis, insect bites, and allergic reactions, hydrocortisone topical may sometimes be used for:

• Hemorrhoids: In the form of a rectal cream or suppository to reduce swelling and discomfort.
• Anal Itching: When caused by certain skin conditions.
• Psoriasis: For mild to moderate cases, under medical supervision.

What special precautions should I follow?

When using hydrocortisone topical, it’s important to follow these precautions to ensure safe and effective use:

• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider if you are allergic to hydrocortisone or any other medications. Allergic reactions to hydrocortisone can include rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
• Medical History: Discuss your medical history with your healthcare provider, especially if you have a history of skin infections, diabetes, or poor blood circulation. Certain conditions may affect how hydrocortisone topical is used or its effectiveness.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your healthcare provider before using hydrocortisone topical. While hydrocortisone is generally considered safe during pregnancy when used as directed, it’s important to discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor.
• Children: Use caution when applying hydrocortisone topical on children, as their skin may absorb more medication than adults. Follow your doctor’s recommendations regarding dosage and duration of treatment.
• Avoid Certain Areas: Do not apply hydrocortisone topical near the eyes, mouth, or other mucous membranes unless specifically instructed by your healthcare provider. Avoid applying it on broken or infected skin unless directed by your doctor.
• Limit Use on Large Areas: Prolonged or excessive use of hydrocortisone topical on large areas of skin can lead to systemic absorption of the medication, which may cause adverse effects such as adrenal suppression. Follow your doctor’s instructions regarding the duration and extent of application.
• Side Effects: Monitor for any signs of allergic reactions or other side effects such as skin thinning, burning sensation, or changes in skin color. Report any unusual symptoms to your healthcare provider promptly.
• Interactions: Inform your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements you are taking. Some medications may interact with hydrocortisone topical, affecting its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.
• Sun Exposure: Avoid prolonged sun exposure and tanning beds while using hydrocortisone topical, as it can increase the risk of skin reactions. Use sunscreen and protective clothing when outdoors.

Following these precautions can help ensure that hydrocortisone topical is used safely and effectively for treating your skin condition. Always consult your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about using this medication.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are typically no specific dietary instructions for using hydrocortisone topical. However, it’s important to maintain a balanced diet and adequate hydration, as good nutrition supports overall skin health and can aid in the healing process.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to apply hydrocortisone topical at the scheduled time, apply it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled application, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not apply extra medication to make up for a missed dose.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Hydrocortisone topical is generally considered safe when used as directed under medical supervision. However, like any medication, it can cause side effects, especially if used improperly or for prolonged periods. Common side effects of hydrocortisone topical include:

• Skin Reactions: These may include burning, itching, irritation, dryness, or redness at the application site. These symptoms are usually mild and should improve as your skin adjusts to the medication.
• Thinning of the Skin: Prolonged use of hydrocortisone topical, especially on sensitive areas or in large amounts, can lead to skin thinning (atrophy). This may make the skin more prone to bruising, tearing, or infections.
• Contact Dermatitis: In some cases, hydrocortisone topical itself can cause or worsen contact dermatitis, which is an allergic reaction characterized by redness, itching, or swelling of the skin.
• Delayed Wound Healing: Long-term use of hydrocortisone topical may slow down the healing process of wounds or ulcers on the skin.
• Hypopigmentation: Rarely, hydrocortisone topical can cause a loss of skin color (hypopigmentation) at the application site, especially in darker-skinned individuals.
• Allergic Reactions: Although uncommon, some people may experience allergic reactions to hydrocortisone topical, such as rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or trouble breathing. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience any signs of a serious allergic reaction.
• Systemic Effects: Although less common with topical use compared to oral or injectable forms, absorption of hydrocortisone through the skin can potentially lead to systemic effects such as adrenal suppression (especially with prolonged use on large areas of skin), Cushing’s syndrome (characterized by weight gain, moon face, and other symptoms), or hyperglycemia (high blood sugar levels).
• Other Effects: In rare cases, hydrocortisone topical may cause acne, folliculitis (inflammation of hair follicles), or exacerbate existing skin infections.

To minimize the risk of side effects, it’s important to use hydrocortisone topical exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Avoid using it on broken or infected skin unless directed by your doctor, and do not apply more than recommended or for longer than advised.

If you experience any unusual or severe symptoms while using hydrocortisone topical, contact your healthcare provider promptly. They can provide guidance on whether to continue using the medication or consider alternative treatments.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Hydrocortisone Topical:

• Storage: Store hydrocortisone topical at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep the tube tightly closed when not in use. Avoid storing it in the bathroom.
• Disposal: Dispose of unused or expired hydrocortisone topical according to local guidelines or as instructed by your pharmacist. 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.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Emergency: In case of severe allergic reaction (e.g., rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing), seek immediate medical attention. Call emergency services (911) if necessary.
• Overdose: Overdose of hydrocortisone topical is unlikely, especially with normal use. However, if someone has ingested the medication or if excessive amounts have been applied over a prolonged period, contact a poison control center (1-800-222-1222 in the USA) or seek emergency medical attention.

What other information should I know?

• Follow Instructions: Use hydrocortisone topical exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not use more or less of it or use it more often than prescribed.
• Avoid Certain Areas: Avoid getting hydrocortisone cream or ointment in your eyes, nose, mouth, or other mucous membranes. If accidental contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.
• Sun Protection: Hydrocortisone topical can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Use sunscreen and protective clothing when outdoors, and avoid prolonged sun exposure or tanning beds.
• Medical Monitoring: Your doctor may periodically monitor your skin condition and overall health while you are using hydrocortisone topical, especially if you are using it for an extended period or on a large area of skin.
• Potential Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all other medications you are using, including prescription, over-the-counter, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Some medications may interact with hydrocortisone topical.
• Skin Reactions: If you experience any unexpected skin reactions or worsening of your skin condition while using hydrocortisone topical, contact your healthcare provider for advice.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits of using hydrocortisone topical with your doctor before starting treatment.

By following these guidelines and staying informed about the proper use and potential risks of hydrocortisone topical, you can use the medication safely and effectively to manage your skin condition. Always consult your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about its use.