Hydrocortisone
Also sold as: Solu-Cortef, Cortef
Prescription neededSteroids (corticosteroids)
Comes as:TabletInjectionCreamOintment
Usual adult dose
Dose is set by your doctor. For adrenal gland replacement, usually 15 to 25 mg a day by mouth in divided doses. Injections are used in emergencies such as severe allergy or asthma. Cream: apply thinly once or twice a day for up to 1 to 2 weeks.
Your doctor may give you a different dose. Children's doses depend on weight.
Side effects
Common
- tablets: increased appetite
- mood changes
- high blood sugar; cream: thinning of the skin with long use
Serious — get help
Stop taking it and see a doctor straight away if you notice:
- signs of serious infection
- black stools or vomiting blood
- severe allergic reaction
Do not take it, or take care, if
- Untreated serious infection (tablets and injections)
- Cream: do not use on infected skin, acne, or on the face for long periods
- Do not stop tablets suddenly after long use
Interactions
Medicines that can react with this one.
Moderate3 medicinesTake together only with care. Ask your doctor or pharmacist.
- Furosemide
Both can lower potassium; potassium levels may need checking.
- Ibuprofen
Steroid tablets with NSAIDs raise the risk of stomach ulcers and bleeding.
- Rifampicin
Rifampicin makes hydrocortisone work less well; replacement doses may need to be increased.