Hydrocortisone: Uses, Side Effects, Dosage

Hydrocortisone is a corticosteroid medication that is used to treat inflammation, allergies, and autoimmune conditions by suppressing the immune system. It can also be used as a hormone replacement therapy.

Hydrocortisone FAQ

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How does hydrocortisone work?

Hydrocortisone is a steroid (corticosteroid) medicine. It works by calming down your body's immune response to reduce pain, itching and swelling (inflammation). It can also be used as hormone replacement for people who do not have enough of the natural stress hormone, cortisol. Hydrocortisone is used to treat many health problems.

What is hydrocortisone used for?

Hydrocortisone is used to treat many health problems. The medicine comes in different forms, including skin creams for the body and scalp, injections and tablets. The type of hydrocortisone you use will depend on your health problem. 2. Skin problems: hydrocortisone cream, ointment or lotion

Is hydrocortisone a steroid?

Hydrocortisone is a short-acting steroid. It’s less potent than other steroids like prednisone and methylprednisolone, which are intermediate-acting. All steroids come with risks and may cause side effects. Hydrocortisone tablets come in three strengths: 5 mg, 10 mg and 20 mg.

What are the side effects of hydrocortisone?

Hydrocortisone may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have: blurred vision, eye pain or redness, seeing halos around lights; severe headaches, ringing in your ears, pain behind your eyes; fluid retention -- shortness of breath (even while lying down), swelling, rapid weight gain (especially in your face and midsection);

What are hydrocortisone tablets?

About hydrocortisone tablets Hydrocortisone tablets are a type of medicine known as a (or corticosteroid). Corticosteroids are not the same as anabolic steroids. Hydrocortisone tablets work as a hormone replacement for a natural hormone called cortisol.

What is a hydrocortisone leaflet?

It includes other important information on the safe and effective use of this medicine that might be especially important for you. The name of your medicine is Hydrocortisone 5 mg, 10 mg and 20 mg Dispersible Tablets (referred to as Hydrocortisone Dispersible Tablets in this leaflet). The active ingredient in your medicine is hydrocortisone.