HYDROCORTISONE - TOPICAL

HYDROCORTISONE - TOPICAL

PHONETIC PRONUNCIATION: (HYE-droe-KOR-ti-sone)

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

GENERIC NAME(S): hydrocortisone/aloe vera

Uses

USES: This medication is used to treat a variety of skin conditions (e.g., 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 HYDROCORTISONE - TOPICAL

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 persists or worsens after 7 days or if you think you may have a serious medical problem.

Side Effects

SIDE EFFECTS: Stinging, burning, irritation, dryness, or redness at the application site may occur. Acne, unusual hair growth, "hair bumps" (folliculitis), skin thinning/discoloration, or stretch marks may also occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, remember that he or she 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, seek immediate medical attention 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

PRECAUTIONS: Before using hydrocortisone, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other corticosteroids (e.g., 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 not known whether 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.

Interactions

DRUG INTERACTIONS: If you are taking this product under your doctor's direction, your doctor or pharmacist may already be aware of any possible drug interactions and may be monitoring you for them. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicine before checking with your doctor or pharmacist first. If prescribed by your doctor, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription or nonprescription/herbal products you may use before using this product. Keep a list of all your medications with you, and share the list with your doctor and pharmacist.

Overdose

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.

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Faq for HYDROCORTISONE - TOPICAL

Hydrocortisone topical is used to relieve itching, redness, and swelling caused by certain skin conditions such as eczema, dermatitis, insect bites, and rashes.

Hydrocortisone topical belongs to a class of medications called corticosteroids. It works by reducing inflammation and suppressing the immune response in the affected area of the skin.

Hydrocortisone topical is available in both prescription and over-the-counter forms. However, higher strengths may require a prescription.

Common side effects may include skin irritation, burning, itching, or dryness at the application site. These side effects are usually mild and go away on their own.

Hydrocortisone topical is generally safe to use on the face, but it should be used sparingly and for short periods of time. Prolonged use on the face can lead to skin thinning and other side effects.

Hydrocortisone topical should not be used for more than 2 weeks at a time unless directed by a healthcare professional. Prolonged use can lead to skin thinning, discoloration, and other adverse effects.

It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using Hydrocortisone topical during pregnancy or while breastfeeding as it may have some risks. They can recommend the appropriate course of action based on your individual situation.

Hydrocortisone topical should not be applied to open wounds or broken skin, as it may be absorbed into the bloodstream and cause systemic side effects.

Hydrocortisone topical can be used on children, but it should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional. The strength and duration of use may vary depending on the child's age and condition.



Disclaimer

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.