Hydrocortisone

Use this medication on the skin only. However, do not use it on the face, groin, or underarms unless directed to do so by your doctor.

Wash and dry your hands before using. Clean and dry the affected area. Apply a small amount of medication to the affected area and gently rub in, usually 2 to 4 times daily or as directed by your doctor. Do not bandage, cover, or wrap the area unless directed to do so by your doctor. If used in the diaper area on an infant, do not use tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants.

After applying the medication, wash your hands. Avoid getting this medication in the eyes, nose, or mouth. If you get the medication in these areas, rinse with plenty of water.

Use this medication only for the condition for which it was prescribed. Do not use it for longer than prescribed.

Inform your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse after 2 weeks.

Stinging, burning, irritation, dryness, or redness at the application site may occur. Acne, excessive hair growth, small red bumps on the skin (folliculitis), skin thinning/discoloration, or stretch marks may also occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, remember that your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US -

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Before using hydrocortisone acetate, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other corticosteroids (such as prednisone, triamcinolone); or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients (such as sulfites), which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history.

Do not use if there is an infection or sore in the area to be treated. Skin infections can become worse when this medication is used. Notify your doctor promptly if redness, swelling, or irritation does not improve.

Children may be more sensitive to the effects of too much corticosteroid medication. Consult your doctor for more details.

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk when applied to the skin. Similar medications pass into breast milk when taken by mouth. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.

This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call 1-844-764-7669.

Do not share this medication with others.

This medication has been prescribed for your current condition only. Do not use it later for other skin problems unless told to do so by your doctor. A different medication may be necessary in those cases.

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Store at room temperature. Avoid freezing. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For information about enrolling in MedicAlert, call 1-888-633-4298 (US) or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).