What is Hydrocortisone cream Medication?

Hydrocortisone cream is a topical medication applied for treating inflammatory conditions in the skin that may lead to redness, itching, and swelling. This is because of the fact that hydrocortisone is known to inhibit the immune system within the skin and, therefore, leads to decreased inflammation and reduction of pain. Its usage is highly prevalent for cases like dermatitis, eczema, and allergic skin reactions.

Hydrocortisone cream is applied directly to the skin, and then it gets absorbed into the outer layers of the target area. Strength at 1% is adequate for mild to moderate cases and is also sold over the counter.  

What is Hydrocortisone cream Medication Used For?

Relieving Inflammation: This medicine will help in decreasing the redness and swelling on the skin.

Skin Eczema Treatment: Hydrocortisone is generally prescribed during eczema flare-ups to calm down irritation. 

Treatment of Itching: The cream relieves itching triggered by rashes or skin. 

Treatment of Allergies: It aids in allergic reactions that result in skin itching or rash.

How Does Hydrocortisone cream Medicine Work?

Hydrocortisone works by reducing inflammation within the skin. It does this through the reduction of an immune response that leads to swelling and irritation. 

Anti-Inflammatory: It reduces swelling and redness, as well as irritation. 

Immune System: Calmness of reaction to immune stimulation, thus suppressing itching and irritation. 

Reduces Itching: Calming the inflammatory process can reduce discomfort from itching.

When to Use Hydrocortisone cream Cream or Ointment for Dermatitis?

Hydrocortisone cream should be prescribed when you are experiencing a mild to moderate attack of dermatitis or eczema that manifests as inflammation, redness, or itching. If you have used other products for your skin with little result, then it is time to consider this medicine.

Who Should Take Hydrocortisone cream?

This is appropriate for any person with a form of skin inflammatory condition. The medication does not pose risk in adults as well as pediatric populations above the age of 2 years though patients should get instructions from physicians.

Who Should Not Take It?

Hydrocortisone should be avoided by certain people. People suffering from some diseases like bacterial, fungal, or viral skin infections should avoid taking hydrocortisone since it could make the disease worse. Anyone who is allergic to corticosteroids or any other ingredients in this medicine should not use it.

You should always consult a GP  before using hydrocortisone if you have any underlying health conditions, such as diabetes, as it may affect your blood sugar levels. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, seek advice from your healthcare provider.  

Can Hydrocortisone cream Medication be Purchased Over the Counter?

Yes. Hydrocortisone cream is over the counter in most pharmacies for dealing with mild, skin-related conditions like eczema or dermatitis or bite from an insect. Still, consulting a General Practitioner before using this is always essential especially if your condition persists or becomes rampant.

Alternative Medications

There are a number of other steroid creams that can be prescribed besides Hydrocortisone cream, such as Betamethasone or Mometasone. These may be prescribed for a more severe case of dermatitis. Should the skin condition not improve with Hydrocortisone, then your physician will often suggest a stronger steroid or possibly other treatments including immunomodulators in order to help counterbalance the immune response.

Other non-steroidal options include calcineurin inhibitors such as Tacrolimus, which are used to treat eczema without the risk of skin thinning associated with steroids. 

How to use Hydrocortisone cream Medication?

Step 1: Clean and dry the affected area of the skin.  

Step 2: Apply a thin layer of Hydrocortisone cream to the affected area.

Step 3: Gently rub it in so that the cream is spread evenly.  - 

Step 4: Wash your hands after application to avoid getting the medication on your face or other sensitive areas.   

Step 5: Use it as directed by your General Practioner, typically 1-3 times a day, depending on the severity of your condition.

Avoid using the cream on large areas of the body or on open wounds unless directed by your physician.

Active Ingredients:  

- Hydrocortisone (cream)  

Inactive Ingredients:  

- Water  

- Emulsifying wax  

- Glycerin  

- Cetyl alcohol  

- Stearic acid  

- Sodium chloride 

Always check the patient information leaflet (PIL) in your pack for the full ingredient list — especially if you have allergies or sensitivities.

Hydrocortisone cream is well tolerated; however, in some individuals, there might be a problem due to some of the side effects mentioned below:

1. Thinning of skin

2. Redness or irritation on the area where the medicine has been applied

3. Itching or stinging at the site

4. Dryness or peeling off the skin

5. Hypertrichosis of the treated area

6. Allergic reaction as it might be responsible for producing a rash and swelling.

7. Acne

8. Change in the colour of skin

More Severe Side Effects:  

Skin Infections: The longer the period of use, the higher the risk of fungal, bacterial, or viral infections on the skin. In some cases, the medication can be absorbed into the bloodstream, leading to systemic side effects, such as weight gain, hypertension, or mood changes. In rare cases, allergic reactions can occur, which may manifest as swelling, rash, or difficulty breathing.

If any of the above side effects occur, you should report yourself to the A&E( Accident and Emergency) Department as soon as possible.