Overview:
Cortisone cream is a widely used medication for the treatment of a variety of skin infections, including eczema, dermatitis, rashes, allergies, insect bites, and itching. It is available as an OTC (over-the-counter) and prescription medication. Cortisone cream is a dosage form for topical application. The active ingredient of this medication is Hydrocortisone. Stop using this medication if hypersensitivity (excessive sensitivity) reactions (hives, rashes, itching, breathlessness) are experienced and report to the doctor immediately.
Drug Group:
Hydrocortisone is a naturally occurring glucocorticoid (a steroid that naturally occurs in the body) and belongs to the class of topical corticosteroids and acts as an anti-inflammatory (reduces pain, swelling, and inflammation), antipruritic (inhibits itching), vasoconstrictive agent (causes constriction of the blood vessels) which also has salt-retaining properties in the body. The other drugs in this class include Prednisone, Prednisolone, Dexamethasone, Hydrocortisone, etc.
What Is Hydrocortisone Used For?
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Hydrocortisone is a commonly used medication to treat various skin conditions, which include skin inflammation like dermatitis, eczema, rashes, allergies, and itching of the skin or genitals (females). It is also an ingredient in various other antibacterial and antifungal preparations.
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It is also used to treat diaper rash in children.
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Cortisone cream is also helpful in reducing the itching and irritation caused by insect bites and stings.
How Does Cortisone Cream Work?
Corticosteroids like Hydrocortisone bind to the glucocorticoid receptors in the body, which are responsible for initiating inflammatory responses. The binding blocks these receptors and promotes anti-inflammatory reactions in the body, thus relieving the various inflammatory conditions. This anti-inflammatory effect reduces the signs of inflammation like redness, swelling, and itching, characterized by skin conditions like eczema, dermatitis, and others.
Onset of Action:
The cream will be absorbed within 15 minutes post-application, and the effect is usually within 24 hours from the start of treatment.
Habit-Forming:
No habit-forming tendencies are yet reported in people taking Cortisone cream.
Expiry Date:
Check the expiry date given on the package of the medication and avoid using the cream past its expiry date.
What is the Dosage of Cortisone Cream?
Cortisone cream is available in strengths between 0.1 to 2.5%.
The general dosing in inflammatory reactions (itching, swelling, and redness of skin) for all the topical preparations are given below:
How to Use Cortisone Cream?
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Before using the cream, carefully read all the instructions on the leaflet or the packet. It will provide all the required information, like side effects, uses, when to expect the result, etc.
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Before application, ensure the hands are clean or wash them thoroughly with soap and water.
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To apply, take a small amount of the cream on the affected area. Rub thoroughly until the cream is completely absorbed into the skin.
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Use as prescribed by the doctor. If using other topical agents, check with the physician or pharmacist for any possible interactions and follow their instructions carefully.
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Avoid its use on open sores or broken skin.
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Wait for 10 to 15 minutes before using any other products in the same area so there is enough time for the drug to be absorbed into the skin.
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After use, wash the hands thoroughly in order to avoid accidental touches to other parts of the body, which may result in adverse effects.
Missed Dose:
As soon as missing the dose is recalled, take the missed dose. If it is time for the next dose, skip the missed one and continue with the regular dosing regimen. Avoid applying the quantity of two doses at the same time.
Overdose:
In case of ingestion of the cream, contact the emergency department immediately.
What Are the Contraindications of Cortisone Cream?
The use of the cream is strictly unadvised in case of a known allergy to the medication or any of its components.
What Are the Drug Warnings and Precautions?
Inform the doctor before taking this medication if any of the following conditions are present:
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Allergies: If there is a prior experience of an unusual or adverse reaction to this or any other medication, foods, colors, preservatives, or animals, let the doctor know immediately. Read the ingredients carefully on the label or container when purchasing it over the counter.
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Diabetes: Cortisone cream may cause decreased blood sugar levels. Inform the doctor before administration.
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Cushing's Syndrome: This condition is characterized by weight gain, weak muscles, and easy bruising, which is common on prolonged corticosteroids. Seek medical help if symptoms appear.
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Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Make sure to let the doctor know in case of pregnancy and breastfeeding. If pregnancy happens after starting the medicine, inform the doctor immediately.
What Are the Side Effects of Cortisone Cream?
People may experience some of the below-mentioned common side effects while using Cortisone creams, like
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Acne, skin redness or dryness, burning, stinging, irritation, or unwanted hair growth.
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Changes in skin tone around the mouth, a few little red pimples, or a rash.
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Little skin lumps that are either white or red.
Some adverse effects can be very harmful. Seek medical help immediately if these symptoms are observed:
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Extreme rash.
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Redness, swelling, or other symptoms of skin infection around the site of the Hydrocortisone application.
Children who use topical Hydrocortisone may be more susceptible to these effects, such as reduced growth and delayed weight gain. Administering this drug topically to the child's skin should be discussed with their doctor.
What Are the Interactions of Cortisone Cream?
Medications tend to interact with other medications, food, or supplements. The most common interactions of cortisone cream are as follows:
1. With Other Drugs:
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Aspirin.
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Diphenhydramine.
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Loratidine.
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Duloxetine.
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Fluticasone nasal.
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Guaifenesin.
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Albuterol.
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Montelukast.
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Cetirizine.
These are some drug interactions of Cortisone cream. Other drugs may also cause similar interactions. Consult the doctor or pharmacist to check for these effects before administration.
2. With Alcohol:
Cortisone cream does not interact with alcohol. However, if symptoms like drowsiness or dizziness are experienced, it is advisable not to consume alcohol while in therapy.
3. With Food:
Topical preparation of Hydrocortisone like Cortisone cream does not significantly interact with food.
4. With Diseases:
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Diabetes: This may cause a decrease in blood sugar levels. Alert the doctor and use as directed.
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Hyperadrenocorticism: It is a condition that occurs due to prolonged exposure to cortisol levels. Cortisone cream may worsen Cushing’s syndrome or hyperadrenocorticism. Inform the doctor before administration if there is a known history of this condition.
What Are the Common Brands or Trade Names of Cortisone cream?
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Cort- H cream.
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Locoid Lipo cream.
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Lycor cream.
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Tendrone cream.
