OCORTIN-100
HYDROCORTOSONE SODIUM SUCCINATE BP
What it does
Hydrocortisone is a medication that helps reduce inflammation and treat various skin conditions.
Commonly used for: skin inflammation, eczema, dermatitis, allergic reactions
Read more in plain English ↓Plain-language summary for general understanding - not medical advice. Always follow your pharmacist/doctor.
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Source: Pharmacy and Poisons Board · fetched 2026-01-28 19:45:25 · updated 2026-08-03 04:16:27
About this medicine
Hydrocortisone is a medication that helps reduce inflammation and treat various skin conditions.
What it treats
- skin inflammation
- eczema
- dermatitis
- allergic reactions
How it works
It works by decreasing swelling, redness, and itching in the skin.
Who it's for
It is for anyone suffering from skin conditions that cause inflammation, but should be used under medical supervision.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: hydrocortosone
Hydrocortisone is a corticosteroid used to treat a variety of inflammatory and auto-immune conditions. It mimics the effects of cortisol, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands, and is used to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune response. Hydrocortisone is available in various formulations, including oral tablets, injectable solutions, and topical creams.
Indications
- Adrenal insufficiency
- Inflammatory conditions (e.g., arthritis, colitis)
- Allergic reactions
- Dermatological disorders (e.g., eczema, psoriasis)
- Asthma exacerbations
- Autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus, multiple sclerosis)
Dosage
Children: Refer to specific guidelines or BNF for tailored dosing based on the condition being treated.
Adults: Refer to specific guidelines or BNF for tailored dosing based on the condition being treated.
Mechanism of action
Hydrocortisone exerts its effects by binding to the glucocorticoid receptor, leading to the modulation of gene expression. This results in decreased synthesis of pro-inflammatory mediators, such as cytokines and chemokines, and increased synthesis of anti-inflammatory proteins. The drug also influences carbohydrate, protein, and fat metabolism.
Pharmacodynamics
The pharmacodynamics of hydrocortisone involve its anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties. It reduces the infiltration of leukocytes and the release of inflammatory mediators at the site of inflammation. Additionally, hydrocortisone enhances the production of lipocortin, which inhibits phospholipase A2, a key enzyme in the inflammatory pathway.
Pharmacokinetics
Hydrocortisone is well absorbed when administered orally, with peak plasma concentrations occurring within 1 to 2 hours. It has a half-life of approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, and it is extensively metabolized in the liver. The metabolites are excreted primarily in urine. The drug has a high protein binding capacity, mainly to corticosteroid-binding globulin and albumin.
Contra-indications
- Systemic fungal infections
- Hypersensitivity to hydrocortisone or any excipients
- Active viral infections
- Recent surgery or trauma
Adverse effects
- Hypertension
- Hyperglycemia
- Increased risk of infections
- Cushing's syndrome
- Osteoporosis
- Gastric ulcers
- Mood changes
- Weight gain
- Skin thinning
Interactions
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) - increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding
- Anticoagulants - may affect coagulation
- Antidiabetic agents - may require dosage adjustments due to hyperglycemia
- Live vaccines - immunosuppressive effects may reduce vaccine efficacy
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with diabetes mellitus
- Monitor for signs of infection
- Gradual withdrawal is recommended after prolonged therapy
- May mask signs of infection
- Considerations in patients with cardiovascular disease
Pregnancy
Hydrocortisone is classified as category C. Use only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
Breast-feeding
Hydrocortisone is excreted in breast milk; use caution and consider benefits versus risks.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.
Formulations
- Topical cream
- Topical ointment
- Oral tablet
- Injectable solution
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.