Hydrocortisone helps relieve inflammation and itch that may occur with certain skin problems.
Apply Hydrocortisone exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not use more often or over a larger area than instructed by your doctor.
This medicine is available as a cream, ointment, solution, or scalp lotion.
If you have been given a cream, ointment, solution, or scalp lotion, follow these steps:
- Wash your hands.
- Clean and dry affected area before application.
- Rub the medicine gently on the skin until it disappears. Do not cover, wrap or bandage the area unless instructed by the doctor.
- Wash your hands after using.
- Replace the cap of the container.
Avoid contact of this medicine with your eyes or mouth. Rinse immediately with water if it gets into your eyes or mouth. Alert your doctor if you start to have any problems with your eyes.
Do not use Hydrocortisone with occlusive dressing unless instructed by the doctor.
The dose of this medicine will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the treatment timeframe depending on the severity of your condition.
Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
If you often forget to use your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Alert your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- untreated fungal, bacterial, or viral infection of the skin e.g. tuberculosis of the skin
- acne (also known as pimple)
- rosacea (skin flushing or blushing usually around your nose and cheeks)
as Hydrocortisone may not be suitable for you.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- diabetes
- eye disease e.g. glaucoma (increased pressure in the eye), cataract (clouding of the lens of the eye)
- psoriasis (a type of skin disease that allows the skin cells to rapidly build up causing itchy patches of thick, red skin and silvery scales)
- liver disease
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving this medicine to a child. Children may be more sensitive to the side effects.
Do not apply on skin that is broken, infected, or discharging fluid or pus.
Do not apply on the face, groin or armpits, and nappy area unless instructed by your doctor.
To avoid burns, do not smoke or go near naked flames. Fabrics (e.g. dressing, clothing, bedding) that has been in contact with this medicine must be washed to reduce product build-up or risk of any serious fire hazards.
Do not use Hydrocortisone for any other purpose other than what your doctor has advised.
Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly.
Hydrocortisone may cause any of the following side effects: stretch marks, irritation, redness, burning sensation, itching, drying, softening, and thinning of the skin.
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:
- rashes, breathlessness, swelling of the face, eyes or mouth
- rounding of the face, acne, weight gain, slow healing
- blurring of your vision or other visual disturbances
- unusual changes in mood or behaviour (being too depressed, agitated, or having compulsive and impulsive behaviour)
- unusual tiredness, increased thirst and hunger, frequent urination
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are using or taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Protect from heat. Do not freeze.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
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