Hydrocortisone Skin Preparations

Why should Hydrocortisone Skin Preparations not be prescribed?

Do not use Hydrocortisone if it has ever given you an allergic reaction.

Special warnings about Hydrocortisone Skin Preparations

Avoid covering a treated area with waterproof diapers or plastic pants. They can increase unwanted absorption of hydrocortisone.

If you use this medication over large areas of skin for prolonged periods of time—or cover the treated area—the amount of the hormone absorbed into your bloodstream may eventually lead to Cushing's syndrome: a moon-faced appearance, fattened neck and trunk, and purplish streaks on the skin. You can also develop glandular problems or high blood sugar, or show sugar in your urine. Children, because of their relatively larger ratio of skin surface area to body weight, are particularly susceptible to overabsorption of hydrocortisone.

Long-term treatment of children with steroids such as hydrocortisone may interfere with growth and development.

If an irritation develops, stop using the medication and contact your doctor.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Hydrocortisone Skin Preparations

No interactions have been reported.

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

The effects of hydrocortisone during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. It is not known whether this medication appears in breast milk in sufficient amounts to affect a nursing baby. To avoid any possible harm to your baby, use hydrocortisone sparingly, and only with your doctor's permission, when breastfeeding.

Recommended dosage for Hydrocortisone Skin Preparations

ADULTS

Apply hydrocortisone cream or lotion to the affected area 2 to 4 times a day, depending on the severity of the condition.

CHILDREN

Limit use to the least amount necessary, as directed by your doctor.

Overdosage

Extensive or long-term use can cause Cushing's syndrome (see "Special warnings about this medication"), glandular problems, higher than normal amounts of sugar in the blood, and high amounts of sugar in the urine. If you suspect an overdose of hydrocortisone, seek medical treatment immediately.