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Hydrocortisone topical

Generic name: hydrocortisone topical [ hye-droe-KOR-ti-sone ]
Brand names: Ala-Cort, Beta HC, Caldecort, Cortizone-10, Dermtex HC, ... show all 14 brands
Dosage forms: topical cream (0.5%; 1%; 10%; 2.5%; butyrate 0.1%; probutate 0.1%; valerate 0.2%), ... show all 9 dosage forms
Drug class: Topical steroids

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Dec 21, 2023. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is hydrocortisone topical?

Hydrocortisone topical (for the skin) is a steroid medicine that is used to treat inflammation and itching caused by skin conditions that respond to steroid medication.

There are many brands and forms of hydrocortisone topical available. Not all brands are listed on this medication guide.

Hydrocortisone topical may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Hydrocortisone topical side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives, difficult breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Side effects can occur if your skin absorbs topical steroid medicine. Tell your doctor if you have:

Hydrocortisone topical may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:

Children can absorb larger amounts of hydrocortisone topical through the skin and may be more likely to have side effects.

Common side effects of hydrocortisone topical may include:

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

Use only as directed. Tell your doctor if you use other medicines or have other medical conditions or allergies.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use hydrocortisone topical if you are allergic to it.

Tell your doctor if you have or have ever had:

Steroid medicines can increase the glucose (sugar) levels in your blood or urine. Tell your doctor if you have diabetes.

It is not known if hydrocortisone topical will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

Ask a doctor if it is safe to breastfeed while using this medicine.

Do not give this medicine to a child without medical advice.

How should I use hydrocortisone topical?

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

Do not take by mouth. Topical medicine is for use only on the skin.

Wash your hands before and after applying this medicine, unless you are using it to treat a hand condition.

Apply a thin layer of medicine to the affected skin and rub it in gently. Do not apply this medicine over a large area of skin unless your doctor has told you to.

Do not cover treated skin with a bandage unless your doctor tells you to.

Shake hydrocortisone lotion and spray well just before each use.

If you are treating the diaper area, do not use plastic pants or tight-fitting diapers.

You may need medical tests to be sure this medicine is not causing harmful effects.

You may need blood or urine tests while using this medicine.

Stop using hydrocortisone and call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after using this medicine for 7 days, or if your symptoms get worse or get better and then come back in a few days.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not freeze. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.

Store the foam canister away from open flame or high heat. Do not puncture or burn an empty canister.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Apply the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not apply two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if anyone has accidentally swallowed the medicine.

High doses or long-term use of hydrocortisone topical can lead to thinning skin, easy bruising, changes in body fat (especially in your face, neck, back, and waist), increased acne or facial hair, menstrual problems, impotence, or loss of interest in sex.

What should I avoid while using hydrocortisone topical?

Do not use hydrocortisone topical to treat any skin condition that has not been checked by your doctor.

Avoid applying hydrocortisone topical to the skin of your face, underarms, or groin area unless your doctor has told you to.

Avoid using other medications on the areas you treat with hydrocortisone topical, unless you doctor tells you to.

Do not get hydrocortisone topical in your eyes. If contact does occur, rinse with water.

What other drugs will affect hydrocortisone topical?

Medicine used on the skin is not likely to be affected by other drugs you use, but many drugs can interact. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.