Hydrocortisone Acetate / Urea
Pronunciation: HIGH-droe-core-tih-sone ASS-uh-TATE/you-REE-ah
Class: Corticosteroid combination
Trade Names
Carmol HC
- Cream 1% hydrocortisone/10% urea
Pharmacology
HydrocortisoneDepresses formation, release, and activity of endogenous mediators of inflammation as well as modifying body's immune response.
Hydrating and keratolytic properties.
Indications and Usage
Relief of inflammatory and pruritic manifestations of corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses.
Contraindications
Standard considerations.
Dosage and Administration
Adults and ChildrenTopical Apply thin film to affected area 3 to 4 times daily, depending on the seriousness of the condition. Administration of topical corticosteroids to children should be limited to the least amount compatible with an effective therapeutic regimen.
General Advice
- For topical use only. Not for ophthalmic or otic use.
- Do not apply an occlusive dressing unless ordered by health care provider.
Storage/Stability
Store at controlled room temperature (59° to 86°F). Keep tube tightly closed and protect from freezing.
Drug Interactions
None well documented.
Laboratory Test Interactions
None well documented.
Adverse Reactions
Dermatologic
Burning; itching; irritation; dryness; folliculitis; hypertrichosis; acneiform eruptions; hypopigmentation; perioral dermatitis; allergic contact dermatitis; maceration of the skin; secondary infection; skin atrophy; striae; miliaria.
Precautions
Pregnancy
Category C .
Lactation
Undetermined; however, systemic hydrocortisone is excreted in breast milk.
Children
Children may demonstrate greater susceptibility to topical corticosteroid-induced hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis suppression and Cushing syndrome than mature patients because of a larger skin surface area to body weight ratio.
Topical absorption
Systemic absorption of topical corticosteroids can produce reversible HPA axis suppression, manifestations of Cushing syndrome, hyperglycemia, and glucosuria.
Overdosage
Symptoms
HPA axis suppression; manifestations of Cushing syndrome; hyperglycemia and glucosuria, especially when large surface areas, prolonged use, or occlusive dressings are involved.
Patient Information
- Review prescribed dosing schedule with patient or caregiver.
- Remind patient or caregiver that cream is not to be used in the eye or ear.
- Teach patient or caregiver proper technique for applying cream: wash hands; apply thin film to affected area(s) using fingers or applicator. Wash hands after applying cream.
- Caution patient or caregiver not to cover area with an occlusive dressing unless advised by health care provider.
- Advise patient or caregiver to contact health care provider if local redness or swelling develops or if skin lesions do not improve or worsen.
Copyright © 2009 Wolters Kluwer Health.
