Hydrocortisone: Your Comprehensive Guide

Summary or Key Points

Hydrocortisone is a medication used to treat various conditions, including inflammatory disorders and adrenal insufficiency. It works by reducing inflammation and regulating your body’s response to stress. However, it’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully, as it can cause side effects. Remember, our telemedicine providers are here to assist you with any questions or concerns about this medication.

Names of Medication

US Brand Name: Cortef (Hydrocortisone)

The term ‘generic name’ refers to the standard name of the drug, which is usually the active ingredient. This is the name you’ll see in parentheses.

Pharmacologic Category

Hydrocortisone belongs to a class of drugs known as corticosteroids. Other drugs in this category include prednisone, dexamethasone, and methylprednisolone.

Dosing

Hydrocortisone is used to treat various conditions. The dosing may vary based on the condition being treated, so always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions.

• Various inflammatory conditions: 20-240mg daily in divided doses 1-4 times per day. Duration varies based on condition severity and patient response.
• Adrenal Insufficiency: 20-30mg daily in divided doses, typically two-thirds of the dose in the morning and one-third in the afternoon. Duration of treatment is typically lifelong.

Remember to consult your healthcare provider before adjusting your dose. You can reach one of our telemedicine providers at any time for personalized advice.

Dosage Forms and Strengths

Hydrocortisone is available in various forms and strengths:

• Oral tablets: 5mg, 10mg, and 20mg
• Topical cream: 0.5%, 1%, 2.5%
• Injection: 100mg, 250mg, 500mg, 1000mg

Administration Instructions

Take Hydrocortisone as directed by your healthcare provider. The oral form should be taken with food or milk to prevent stomach upset. Topical forms should be applied to the affected area as directed. Always follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider and reach out to our telemedicine service if you have any doubts or queries.

Adverse Reactions and Side Effects

Hydrocortisone, like any medication, can cause side effects. Not everyone experiences these, but it’s important to be aware of them:

• Common (may affect up to 1 in 10 people): Increased appetite, weight gain, fluid retention, high blood pressure, mood changes, difficulty sleeping.
• Uncommon (may affect up to 1 in 100 people): Blurred vision, cataracts, bone thinning, skin thinning, increased risk of infection.

If you experience any side effects, it’s crucial to consult with your healthcare provider promptly. Our telemedicine service can provide immediate assistance, so don’t hesitate to reach out.

Contraindications

In medicine, a contraindication refers to a specific situation or condition that makes a particular treatment or procedure potentially harmful. Hydrocortisone has a few contraindications:

• Allergic reactions: If you have had previous allergic reactions to hydrocortisone or any of its ingredients, you should avoid using this medication due to the risk of severe allergic reactions.
• Fungal infections: Hydrocortisone can suppress the immune response, making it harder for your body to fight off infections. Therefore, it is not recommended if you have untreated systemic fungal infections.

Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new medication. Our telemedicine providers are readily available to answer any of your questions.

Drug to Drug Interactions

Hydrocortisone can interact with certain medications, which may affect how it works or increase the risk of side effects. Some of these medications include:

• Warfarin (Coumadin)
• Phenobarbital (Luminal)
• Rifampin (Rifadin, Rimactane)

Be sure to discuss all medications and supplements you’re currently taking with your healthcare provider. Our telemedicine team is here to help you navigate these discussions.

Hydrocortisone in Pregnancy

Hydrocortisone is generally considered safe to use during pregnancy, but it should be used under a healthcare provider’s guidance. Always consult with your healthcare provider if you’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant. You can contact our telemedicine service for immediate advice and assistance.

Hydrocortisone while Breastfeeding

Small amounts of Hydrocortisone can pass into breast milk. While it’s generally considered safe, it’s always best to discuss your individual situation with your healthcare provider. Our telemedicine service is always available to address your concerns.

Estimated Cost of Medication

The estimated cost of a 30-day supply of Hydrocortisone without insurance, using a GoodRX coupon, is approximately $15-$30. Prices can vary based on the pharmacy and your location.

Possible Alternatives

For certain conditions, alternative treatments or lifestyle changes may be beneficial. However, always discuss these alternatives with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan.

• Various inflammatory conditions: Alternatives can include other corticosteroids, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise.
• Adrenal Insufficiency: Other corticosteroids may be considered. However, lifestyle changes alone cannot adequately treat adrenal insufficiency.

Our telemedicine providers can help you explore these alternatives and find a treatment plan that works best for you.

Recent Updates on Hydrocortisone Research

Recent studies are focusing on the long-term effects and safety of Hydrocortisone use, especially in patients with chronic conditions. Additionally, research is ongoing into new formulations and methods of administration, aiming to maximize the benefits and minimize the side effects of this medication. If you have any questions about these studies or how they might affect your treatment, feel free to reach out to our telemedicine team.

Brief Legal Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.
Brief Legal Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.