Indications
Hydrocortisone acetate is a mild corticosteroid (steroid). It is mainly used on the skin to relieve redness, swelling, itching and irritation caused by eczema, dermatitis (including contact and allergic dermatitis), insect bites and similar inflammatory skin conditions. It is also found in some ear, eye and rectal products (for example for piles), often combined with other medicines, and as an injection into inflamed joints given by a doctor.
How It Works
It reduces the release of natural substances in the body that cause inflammation and allergic reactions. This calms redness, swelling and itch. It does not treat infection.
Dosage and Administration
- Skin cream or ointment (commonly 1%): apply a thin layer to the affected area once or twice a day (up to three times a day if advised) and rub in gently. Wash hands after use. Use for the shortest time needed, usually no more than 7 days without medical advice. In children, on the face and in skin folds, use only as advised by a doctor.
- Ear, eye and rectal products: as prescribed or as stated on the pack.
- Joint injections: given by a doctor, as prescribed.
Interactions
Skin use causes few interactions. Do not use other steroid creams on the same area at the same time. With injections, or heavy use on large areas, enough steroid can be absorbed to affect blood sugar control, so tell the doctor about all medicines, including diabetes medicines and blood thinners.
Contraindications
- Allergy to hydrocortisone or any ingredient of the product.
- Untreated skin infections caused by bacteria, viruses (such as cold sores, chickenpox or shingles) or fungi (such as ringworm), unless a medicine for the infection is also used as prescribed.
- Acne, rosacea and rash around the mouth (perioral dermatitis).
- Eye products: viral, fungal or untreated bacterial eye infections. Ear products: a perforated eardrum, unless a doctor advises otherwise.
Side Effects
Usually mild, such as burning, stinging or dryness where it is applied. Long use, especially under dressings or on large areas, can thin the skin and cause stretch marks, small visible blood vessels or lighter skin, and can hide or worsen an infection.
Get urgent medical help for signs of a severe allergic reaction (swelling of the face, lips or throat, difficulty breathing), or if the skin becomes very red, hot, swollen, painful or filled with pus. With eye products, seek urgent care for eye pain or worsening vision.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Short-term use on small areas of skin is generally considered acceptable when needed; avoid large areas and long courses unless a doctor advises them. When breastfeeding, do not apply it to the breast or nipple area, or wash it off before feeding.
Precautions and Warnings
Do not cover the treated skin with tight dressings or plastic unless advised; a baby’s nappy can act like a dressing. Keep skin products away from the eyes. Do not use for longer than advised. After long-term use on large areas, ask the doctor before stopping. See a doctor if the condition does not improve within 7 days or gets worse.
Overdose
Overuse on the skin rarely causes serious harm, but long-term heavy use can be absorbed into the body and cause steroid side effects such as raised blood sugar and reduced natural steroid production, especially in children. Stop overusing it and seek medical advice. If a product is swallowed, contact a doctor.
Therapeutic Class
Corticosteroid (mild potency, mainly topical).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Do not freeze. Close the tube or container tightly after use.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.