Hydrocortisone (Topical)
Key points
- Treats skin irritation, allergic reactions, and other types of skin problems.
- Locoid, Locoid Lipocream, Hytone, Pandel, Caldecort, Caldecort Light, Medi-Cortisone Maximum Strength, Nupercainal Hc 1%, Cortaid Sensitive Skin w/Aloe, Foille Cort, Cortaid Maximum Strength, Westcort, Cotacort, Microcort, Lacticare-HC There may be other brand names for this medicine.
- You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to hydrocortisone or any other related medicine, such as triamcinolone (Aristocortreg;), betamethasone (Valisonereg;), or fluocinonide (Lidexreg;).
- Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
Hydrocortisone (On The Skin)
Hydrocortisone (hye-droe-KOR-ti-sone)
Treats skin irritation, allergic reactions, and other types of skin problems. Belongs to a class of drugs called corticosteroids.
Brand Name(s):
Locoid, Locoid Lipocream, Hytone, Pandel, Caldecort, Caldecort Light, Medi-Cortisone Maximum Strength, Nupercainal Hc 1%, Cortaid Sensitive Skin w/Aloe, Foille Cort, Cortaid Maximum Strength, Westcort, Cotacort, Microcort, Lacticare-HC
There may be other brand names for this medicine.
When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:
You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to hydrocortisone or any other related medicine, such as triamcinolone (Aristocortreg;), betamethasone (Valisonereg;), or fluocinonide (Lidexreg;).
How to Use This Medicine:
Cream, Ointment, Lotion, Spray, Gel/Jelly, Stick, Liquid
- Your doctor will tell you how much to use and how often.
- This medicine comes with patient instructions. Read and follow these instructions carefully. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
- Use only on the skin. You should not use this medicine in or around your eyes.
- You should not use this medicine on your face or neck unless your doctor told you to do so.
- Apply a thin layer to the affected area. Rub in gently.
- Shake the lotion well before using.
- The spray could catch on fire. Do not use the spray near high heat or flame.
- Do not cover the treated skin with a bandage unless your doctor tells you to do so.
- If this medicine is used on the diaper area of a child, avoid using tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants.
If a dose is missed::
- Put on the missed dose as soon as possible.
- Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next regular dose.
- You should not use two doses at the same time.
How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:
- Store at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Do not freeze.
- Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.
Drugs and Foods to Avoid:
Written and revised by
David Cohen, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
health.am provides general information, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified health professional about your own health.
