Hydrocortisone 1% Cream 28gm
It is used to treat skin irritation.It is used to treat skin rashes.
Drug Class
Topical Corticosteroid
Pharmacologic Class
Glucocorticoid
Pregnancy Category
Category C
FDA Approved
Jan 1970
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Hydrocortisone 1% cream is a mild corticosteroid medication applied to the skin to reduce redness, itching, and swelling caused by various skin conditions like eczema, dermatitis, and insect bites. It works by calming down the body's inflammatory response in the skin.
How to Use This Medicine
Proper Use of This Medication
To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. This medication is for topical use only, meaning it should be applied directly to the affected area of your skin. Avoid getting it in your mouth, nose, eyes, or vagina, as it may cause irritation or burning.
Application Instructions
1. Wash your hands before and after applying the medication, unless your hand is the treated area.
2. Clean the affected area before applying the medication and dry it thoroughly.
3. Apply a thin layer of the medication to the affected skin and gently rub it in.
4. Do not cover the treated area with bandages, dressings, or tight-fitting clothing unless instructed to do so by your doctor.
5. Avoid applying the medication to your face, underarms, or groin area unless specifically directed to do so by your doctor.
6. If the treated area is in the diaper region, do not use tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants, as this may increase the amount of medication absorbed into the body.
Continuing Treatment
Continue using the medication as directed, even if your symptoms improve. It is essential to complete the full treatment course to ensure the best possible outcome.
Storage and Disposal
1. Store the medication at room temperature, away from freezing temperatures.
2. Keep all medications in a safe and secure location, out of the reach of children and pets.
3. Dispose of unused or expired medications properly. Do not flush them down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless instructed to do so.
4. Check with your pharmacist for guidance on the best way to dispose of medications, and consider participating in local drug take-back programs.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular application schedule. Do not apply two doses at once or use extra doses to make up for a missed dose.
To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. This medication is for topical use only, meaning it should be applied directly to the affected area of your skin. Avoid getting it in your mouth, nose, eyes, or vagina, as it may cause irritation or burning.
Application Instructions
1. Wash your hands before and after applying the medication, unless your hand is the treated area.
2. Clean the affected area before applying the medication and dry it thoroughly.
3. Apply a thin layer of the medication to the affected skin and gently rub it in.
4. Do not cover the treated area with bandages, dressings, or tight-fitting clothing unless instructed to do so by your doctor.
5. Avoid applying the medication to your face, underarms, or groin area unless specifically directed to do so by your doctor.
6. If the treated area is in the diaper region, do not use tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants, as this may increase the amount of medication absorbed into the body.
Continuing Treatment
Continue using the medication as directed, even if your symptoms improve. It is essential to complete the full treatment course to ensure the best possible outcome.
Storage and Disposal
1. Store the medication at room temperature, away from freezing temperatures.
2. Keep all medications in a safe and secure location, out of the reach of children and pets.
3. Dispose of unused or expired medications properly. Do not flush them down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless instructed to do so.
4. Check with your pharmacist for guidance on the best way to dispose of medications, and consider participating in local drug take-back programs.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular application schedule. Do not apply two doses at once or use extra doses to make up for a missed dose.
Lifestyle & Tips
- Wash hands before and after applying the cream.
- Apply a thin layer to the affected area and rub in gently until it disappears.
- Do not use more than directed or for longer than prescribed.
- Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, and other mucous membranes.
- Do not use on broken or infected skin unless directed by a doctor.
- Do not cover the treated area with bandages or tight dressings unless specifically instructed by your doctor, as this can increase absorption and side effects.
- Keep out of reach of children.
Available Forms & Alternatives
Available Strengths:
- Hydrocortisone 1% Ointment 28.35gm
- Hydrocortisone 2.5% Cream 30gm
- Hydrocortisone 1% Cream 28.35gm
- Hydrocortisone 2.5% Oint 28.35gm
- Hydrocortisone Val 0.2% Cream 15gm
- Hydrocortisone Val 0.2% Cream 45gm
- Hydrocortisone Val 0.2% Cream 60gm
- Hydrocortisone Val 0.2% Oint 15gm
- Hydrocortisone Val 0.2% Ont 45gm
- Hydrocortisone Val 0.2% Ont 60gm
- Hydrocortisone 2.5% Oint 453.6gm
- Hydrocortisone 1% Ointment 453.6gm
- Hydrocortisone 2.5% Ointment 20gm
- Hydrocortisone 2.5% Cream
- Hydrocortisone AC 25mg Rectal Supp
- Hydrocortisone 1% Cream
- Hydrocort Butyrate 0.1% Soln 60ml
- Hydrocortisone Ace 30mg Suppository
- Hydrocortisone Val 0.2% Cream 45gm
- Hydrocortisone But 0.1% Oint 15gm
- Hydrocortisone But 0.1% Oint 45gm
- Hydrocortisone Val 0.2% Cream 60gm
- Hydrocortisone Val 0.2% Cream 15gm
- Hydrocortisone But 0.1% Cream 15gm
- Hydrocortisone But 0.1% Cream 45gm
- Hydrocortisone 2.5% Ointment 454gm
- Hydrocortisone 2.5% Cream 20gm
- Hydrocort Butyrate 0.1% Soln 20ml
- Hydrocortisone 2.5% Lotion 59ml
- Hydrocortisone 2.5% Lotion 118ml
- Hydrocortisone 2.5% Cream 28.35gm
- Hydrocortisone 100mg Enema 7 X 60ml
- Hydrocortisone 10mg Tablets
- Hydrocortisone 20mg Tablets
- Hydrocortisone 5mg Tablets
- Hydrocortisone Butyr 0.1% Crm 60gm
- Hydrocortisone Butyr 0.1% Crm 45gm
- Hydrocortisone 1% Cream 454gm
- Hydrocortisone 1% Ointment 28gm
- Hydrocortisone 0.5% W/aloe Cream
- Hydrocortisone 2.5% Rectal Cream
- Hydrocortisone 1% Cream 14.2gm
- Hydrocortisone 1% Rectal Crm 28.4gm
- Hydrocortisone 1%/iodoquinol 1% Crm
- Hydrocortisone 1% Cream 28gm
- Hydrocortisone 10mg Tablets
- Hydrocortisone 20mg Tablets
- Hydrocortisone 5mg Tablets
- Hydrocortisone Val 0.2% Oint 45gm
- Hydrocortisone Val 0.2% Oint 60gm
- Hydrocortisone 1% Cream 28.4gm
- Hydrocortisone 1% Cream 454gm
- Hydrocortisone 2.5% Cream 454gm
- Hydrocortisone 100mg Enema 60ml
- Hydrocortisone But 0.1% Lotion 59ml
- Hydrocortisone 1% W/aloe Cream 28gm
- Hydrocortisone 1% Plus Cream 28.4gm
Dosing & Administration
Adult Dosing
Standard Dose:
Apply a thin film to the affected skin area 2 to 4 times daily, or as directed by a physician.
Condition-Specific Dosing:
eczema:
Apply sparingly 2-3 times daily.
dermatitis:
Apply sparingly 2-3 times daily.
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
Not established (use with extreme caution, increased systemic absorption risk)
Infant:
Apply a thin film to the affected skin area 1 to 2 times daily, for short periods. Avoid use on large surface areas or under occlusive dressings.
Child:
Apply a thin film to the affected skin area 1 to 2 times daily, for short periods. Avoid use on large surface areas or under occlusive dressings.
Adolescent:
Apply a thin film to the affected skin area 2 to 4 times daily, or as directed by a physician.
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment needed for topical use.
Moderate:
No adjustment needed for topical use.
Severe:
No adjustment needed for topical use.
Dialysis:
No specific considerations for topical use.
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment needed for topical use.
Moderate:
No adjustment needed for topical use.
Severe:
No adjustment needed for topical use.
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Hydrocortisone is a corticosteroid that acts by inducing phospholipase A2 inhibitory proteins, lipocortins. These proteins control the biosynthesis of potent mediators of inflammation such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes by inhibiting the release of their common precursor, arachidonic acid. It exhibits anti-inflammatory, antipruritic, and vasoconstrictive properties.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Bioavailability:
Minimal systemic absorption (typically <1-5%) through intact skin; increases with skin damage, inflammation, occlusion, or large surface area application.
Tmax:
Not applicable for topical systemic effects; local effect onset is rapid.
FoodEffect:
Not applicable for topical administration.
Distribution:
Vd:
Not applicable for topical administration (minimal systemic distribution).
ProteinBinding:
Approximately 90% (if systemically absorbed, primarily to transcortin and albumin).
CnssPenetration:
Limited (if systemically absorbed).
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Approximately 1.5-2 hours (systemic, if absorbed).
Clearance:
Not precisely quantified for topical absorption.
ExcretionRoute:
Renal (if systemically absorbed).
Unchanged:
Minimal (if systemically absorbed).
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Within hours for local anti-inflammatory effects.
PeakEffect:
Within days of consistent application.
DurationOfAction:
Varies with frequency of application, typically 12-24 hours per application.
Confidence:
Medium
Safety & Warnings
Side Effects
Urgent Side Effects: Seek Medical Help Right Away
Although rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects while taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor immediately or seek emergency medical attention:
Signs of an allergic reaction: rash, hives, itching, red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin (with or without fever), wheezing, tightness in the chest or throat, difficulty breathing, swallowing, or talking, unusual hoarseness, or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Signs of high blood sugar: confusion, drowsiness, excessive thirst or hunger, frequent urination, flushing, rapid breathing, or fruity-smelling breath
Signs of a weak adrenal gland: severe nausea or vomiting, severe dizziness or fainting, muscle weakness, extreme fatigue, mood changes, decreased appetite, or weight loss
Signs of Cushing's syndrome: weight gain in the upper back or abdomen, moon face, severe headache, or slow wound healing
Changes in vision
Severe headache
Irritation at the site of application
Signs of skin infection: oozing, heat, swelling, redness, or pain
Skin changes (acne, stretch marks, slow healing, excessive hair growth)
Thinning of the skin
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. While many people may not experience any side effects or only minor ones, it's essential to discuss any concerns with your doctor. If you experience any of the following side effects or any other unusual symptoms that bother you or persist, contact your doctor for guidance:
Burning or stinging sensation
Dryness
* Tingling
This is not an exhaustive list of possible side effects. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, consult your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Although rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects while taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor immediately or seek emergency medical attention:
Signs of an allergic reaction: rash, hives, itching, red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin (with or without fever), wheezing, tightness in the chest or throat, difficulty breathing, swallowing, or talking, unusual hoarseness, or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Signs of high blood sugar: confusion, drowsiness, excessive thirst or hunger, frequent urination, flushing, rapid breathing, or fruity-smelling breath
Signs of a weak adrenal gland: severe nausea or vomiting, severe dizziness or fainting, muscle weakness, extreme fatigue, mood changes, decreased appetite, or weight loss
Signs of Cushing's syndrome: weight gain in the upper back or abdomen, moon face, severe headache, or slow wound healing
Changes in vision
Severe headache
Irritation at the site of application
Signs of skin infection: oozing, heat, swelling, redness, or pain
Skin changes (acne, stretch marks, slow healing, excessive hair growth)
Thinning of the skin
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. While many people may not experience any side effects or only minor ones, it's essential to discuss any concerns with your doctor. If you experience any of the following side effects or any other unusual symptoms that bother you or persist, contact your doctor for guidance:
Burning or stinging sensation
Dryness
* Tingling
This is not an exhaustive list of possible side effects. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, consult your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:
- Worsening of skin condition or no improvement after 1-2 weeks.
- Signs of skin infection (e.g., pus, fever, spreading redness, increased pain).
- Severe burning, itching, irritation, or dryness at the application site.
- Skin thinning, easy bruising, stretch marks, or changes in skin color.
- Unusual hair growth.
- Acne-like rash.
- Any signs of systemic side effects (e.g., unusual weight gain, swelling in ankles/feet, muscle weakness, fatigue) - these are rare with topical 1% hydrocortisone but possible with extensive or prolonged use.
Before Using This Medicine
Before Taking This Medication: Important Information to Share with Your Doctor
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the symptoms you experienced as a result of the allergy.
Potential interactions with other medications or health conditions. This medication may affect or be affected by other drugs or health problems, so it is crucial to disclose all relevant information.
To ensure safe treatment, provide your doctor and pharmacist with a comprehensive list of:
All prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications you are currently taking
Any natural products or vitamins you are using
* Existing health problems or conditions
Before making any changes to your medication regimen, including starting, stopping, or adjusting the dose of any drug, consult with your doctor to confirm that it is safe to do so in conjunction with this medication.
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the symptoms you experienced as a result of the allergy.
Potential interactions with other medications or health conditions. This medication may affect or be affected by other drugs or health problems, so it is crucial to disclose all relevant information.
To ensure safe treatment, provide your doctor and pharmacist with a comprehensive list of:
All prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications you are currently taking
Any natural products or vitamins you are using
* Existing health problems or conditions
Before making any changes to your medication regimen, including starting, stopping, or adjusting the dose of any drug, consult with your doctor to confirm that it is safe to do so in conjunction with this medication.
Precautions & Cautions
It is essential to inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication. Before using any other medications or products on your skin, including soaps, consult with your doctor.
To ensure safe use, avoid applying this medication to cuts, scrapes, or damaged skin. When using it on a large area of skin, exercise caution and discuss this with your doctor.
If this medication is accidentally swallowed, seek immediate medical attention by calling a doctor or poison control center. Adhere to your doctor's prescribed treatment duration and do not use this medication for an extended period.
Prolonged use of this medication may increase the risk of developing cataracts or glaucoma; therefore, consult with your doctor to discuss potential risks. Additionally, some products may not be suitable for use in the diaper area, so it is crucial to consult with your doctor before application.
When using this medication in children, exercise caution, as the risk of certain side effects may be higher in this population. In some cases, this medication may affect growth in children and teenagers, necessitating regular growth checks; consult with your doctor to discuss this potential risk.
If you are breast-feeding and apply this medication to your breast or nipple, ensure you wash the area thoroughly before breast-feeding your child. Certain formulations of this medication may not be suitable for all age groups of children, so if you have questions, consult with your doctor.
If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding, inform your doctor, as you will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using this medication to you and your baby.
To ensure safe use, avoid applying this medication to cuts, scrapes, or damaged skin. When using it on a large area of skin, exercise caution and discuss this with your doctor.
If this medication is accidentally swallowed, seek immediate medical attention by calling a doctor or poison control center. Adhere to your doctor's prescribed treatment duration and do not use this medication for an extended period.
Prolonged use of this medication may increase the risk of developing cataracts or glaucoma; therefore, consult with your doctor to discuss potential risks. Additionally, some products may not be suitable for use in the diaper area, so it is crucial to consult with your doctor before application.
When using this medication in children, exercise caution, as the risk of certain side effects may be higher in this population. In some cases, this medication may affect growth in children and teenagers, necessitating regular growth checks; consult with your doctor to discuss this potential risk.
If you are breast-feeding and apply this medication to your breast or nipple, ensure you wash the area thoroughly before breast-feeding your child. Certain formulations of this medication may not be suitable for all age groups of children, so if you have questions, consult with your doctor.
If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding, inform your doctor, as you will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using this medication to you and your baby.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Prolonged or excessive use, especially on large areas or under occlusion, can lead to systemic absorption and symptoms of hypercorticism (Cushing's syndrome), including: moon face, central obesity, striae, muscle weakness, hypertension, hyperglycemia, and adrenal suppression.
What to Do:
Discontinue use. Consult a healthcare professional immediately. Management is symptomatic and supportive. For accidental ingestion, call a poison control center (1-800-222-1222) or seek emergency medical attention.
Drug Interactions
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Skin condition assessment
Rationale: To establish baseline severity of dermatosis and identify any contraindications (e.g., active infection).
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.
Routine Monitoring
Efficacy (reduction in inflammation, pruritus)
Frequency: Daily to weekly, depending on severity.
Target: Improvement in symptoms.
Action Threshold: Lack of improvement or worsening symptoms after 1-2 weeks may require re-evaluation.
Local adverse effects (skin atrophy, striae, telangiectasias, folliculitis, perioral dermatitis)
Frequency: Weekly to monthly, or at each follow-up visit.
Target: Absence of adverse effects.
Action Threshold: Presence of adverse effects may require dose reduction, discontinuation, or change in therapy.
Signs of systemic absorption (rare, e.g., Cushing's syndrome, HPA axis suppression)
Frequency: Periodically, especially with prolonged use, large surface area application, or occlusive dressings.
Target: Absence of systemic effects.
Action Threshold: Any signs of systemic effects warrant immediate discontinuation and medical evaluation.
Symptom Monitoring
- Redness
- Itching
- Swelling
- Pain at application site
- Skin thinning
- Easy bruising
- Stretch marks (striae)
- Increased hair growth (hypertrichosis)
- Acne-like eruptions
- Folliculitis
- Perioral dermatitis
- Signs of secondary infection (pus, fever, spreading redness)
- Unusual fatigue
- Weight gain (especially in face/trunk)
- Muscle weakness
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Use during pregnancy should only be considered if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Category C. Avoid large areas, prolonged use, or occlusive dressings.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
Potential for teratogenicity, though low with topical use.
Second Trimester:
Risk of fetal growth restriction or adrenal suppression, though low with topical use.
Third Trimester:
Risk of fetal growth restriction or adrenal suppression, though low with topical use.
Lactation
Considered compatible with breastfeeding when used topically on small areas for short durations. Avoid applying to the breast or nipple area to prevent infant ingestion.
Infant Risk:
Low risk of adverse effects to the infant with appropriate topical use.
Pediatric Use
Children, especially infants and young children, are more susceptible to systemic absorption and adverse effects (e.g., HPA axis suppression, Cushing's syndrome, growth retardation) due to a larger skin surface area to body weight ratio. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible. Avoid occlusive dressings.
Geriatric Use
No specific dose adjustments are generally needed. However, elderly patients may have thinner skin, which could increase the risk of local adverse effects (e.g., skin atrophy, purpura). Use with caution and monitor for skin integrity.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Hydrocortisone 1% is a low-potency topical corticosteroid, suitable for mild to moderate inflammatory dermatoses.
- Educate patients on proper application technique: thin layer, gentle rubbing, avoiding eyes/mucous membranes.
- Advise against prolonged use (typically >2-4 weeks) without medical supervision, especially on the face, groin, or axillae, due to risk of skin atrophy and other local side effects.
- Warn about the increased risk of systemic absorption in children, on large body surface areas, or under occlusion.
- If no improvement is seen after 1-2 weeks, re-evaluate the diagnosis or consider a different treatment.
Alternative Therapies
- Other topical corticosteroids (e.g., triamcinolone, fluocinolone, betamethasone - varying potencies)
- Topical calcineurin inhibitors (e.g., tacrolimus, pimecrolimus) for eczema, especially on sensitive areas.
- Emollients and moisturizers for dry skin conditions.
- Antihistamines (oral or topical) for pruritus.
- Topical antifungals or antibacterials if infection is present.
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
$10 - $30 per 28gm tube
Generic Available:
Yes
Insurance Coverage:
Tier 1 (Generic)
General Drug Facts
If your symptoms or health issues persist or worsen, it is essential to contact your doctor for further guidance. To ensure your safety, never share your medication with others or take someone else's medication. Some medications may come with an additional patient information leaflet, so it is a good idea to consult with your pharmacist. If you have any questions or concerns about this medication, do not hesitate to discuss them with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately call your local poison control center or seek emergency medical attention. When seeking help, be prepared to provide detailed information about the overdose, including the medication taken, the amount, and the time it occurred.