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Exchange Select Hydrocortisone

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Active ingredient
Hydrocortisone 1 g/100 g
Other brand names
Drug class
Corticosteroid
Dosage form
Cream
Route
Topical
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
Pregnancy
See Pregnancy Use Section
Lactation
See Lactation Use Section
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2016
Label revision date
September 19, 2024
Drug Information (PDF)
Prescribing information, PDF file
Active ingredient
Hydrocortisone 1 g/100 g
Other brand names
Drug class
Corticosteroid
Dosage form
Cream
Route
Topical
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
CSA schedule
Not a scheduled drug
Pregnancy
See Pregnancy Use Section
Lactation
See Lactation Use Section
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2016
Label revision date
September 19, 2024
Manufacturer
Army & Air Force Exchange Service
Registration number
M017
NDC root
55301-201
Drug Information (PDF)
Prescribing information, PDF file
Packaging Info
Packaging & NDC Codes

If you are a healthcare professional or from the pharmaceutical industry please visit this version.

If you are a consumer or patient please visit this version.

Drug Overview

exchange select™ is a topical anti-itch cream designed to provide fast relief from itching caused by various minor skin irritations, such as eczema, psoriasis, insect bites, and rashes from poison ivy, oak, or sumac. It contains 1% hydrocortisone, which is a strong anti-itch active ingredient that helps reduce inflammation and soothe the skin.

This product is available without a prescription and is recommended by doctors for its effectiveness. In addition to hydrocortisone, it includes calming aloe vera to enhance comfort. Whether you're dealing with irritation from detergents, jewelry, or cosmetics, exchange select™ aims to offer serious relief for your skin's discomfort.

Uses

This product is designed to provide temporary relief from itching caused by various minor skin irritations, inflammation, and rashes. You can use it for conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and reactions to poison ivy, oak, or sumac. It’s also effective for soothing itching from insect bites, as well as irritations caused by detergents, jewelry, cosmetics, soaps, and seborrheic dermatitis.

Additionally, this product can help relieve external anal and genital itching. However, for any other uses, it’s important to consult with your doctor for guidance and supervision.

Dosage and Administration

If you're dealing with itching from skin irritation, inflammation, or rashes, you can apply the medication to the affected area up to 3 to 4 times a day. This is suitable for adults and children who are 2 years old and older. However, if your child is under 2 years of age, it's important to consult a doctor before using this treatment.

For external itching in the anal and genital areas, adults should first clean the area with mild soap and warm water, making sure to rinse thoroughly. After cleaning, gently dry the area by patting or blotting it with toilet tissue or a soft cloth. You can then apply the medication to the affected area, again up to 3 to 4 times daily. If the person needing treatment is under 12 years old, it's best to consult a doctor for guidance.

What to Avoid

You should avoid using this product in the genital area if you have a vaginal discharge or for treating diaper rash; it's important to consult a doctor in these cases. If you experience rectal bleeding, notice that your condition worsens, or if symptoms persist for more than 7 days or return shortly after improvement, stop using the product and seek medical advice.

While using this product, be careful to avoid contact with your eyes, and do not exceed the recommended dosage unless directed by a doctor. Additionally, do not insert the product directly into the rectum using your fingers or any device. Always prioritize your health and consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.

Side Effects

When using this product, it's important to be aware of some potential side effects and precautions. You should avoid contact with your eyes and not use it more than directed unless advised by a doctor. If you experience rectal bleeding, if your condition worsens, or if symptoms persist for more than 7 days or return shortly after improvement, stop using the product and consult a doctor.

This product is for external use only and should not be applied in the genital area if you have a vaginal discharge or used for diaper rash without consulting a doctor. Keep it out of reach of children, and if swallowed, seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.

Warnings and Precautions

This product is for external use only, so please avoid using it on internal areas. Do not apply it in the genital area if you have a vaginal discharge or for treating diaper rash without consulting a doctor first. While using this product, be careful to keep it away from your eyes, and only use the amount directed by your doctor. Avoid inserting it directly into the rectum with fingers or any devices.

If you experience rectal bleeding, if your condition worsens, or if symptoms last more than 7 days or return shortly after improvement, stop using the product and consult your doctor. Additionally, if the product is swallowed, seek emergency medical help immediately or contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.

Overdose

If you or someone else has swallowed too much of this medication, it’s important to seek medical help immediately. You can contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance.

Signs of an overdose may include unusual symptoms, but specific details on these symptoms are not provided here. If you notice anything concerning, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Remember, acting quickly can make a significant difference in ensuring safety and health.

Pregnancy Use

If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, it's important to know that the safety of hydrocortisone during pregnancy has not been established. You should consult your doctor before using this medication, as there may be potential risks to your fetus. Hydrocortisone should only be used if it is clearly needed and if the benefits outweigh any risks.

Additionally, dosage adjustments may be necessary, so it's crucial to seek guidance from your healthcare provider. Always use hydrocortisone under the supervision of a healthcare professional during your pregnancy to ensure the best care for you and your baby.

Lactation Use

If you are breastfeeding and considering the use of hydrocortisone cream, you can feel reassured that there are no specific warnings or recommendations against its use for nursing mothers. Additionally, the information available does not indicate any concerns about the cream being passed into breast milk or posing any risk to your infant.

As always, if you have any questions or concerns about using any medication while breastfeeding, it's a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Pediatric Use

If your child is experiencing itching from skin irritation, inflammation, or rashes, you can apply the treatment to the affected area up to 3 to 4 times a day for children aged 2 years and older. However, if your child is under 2 years old, it's important to consult a doctor before using the product.

For external anal and genital itching, adults should first clean the area with mild soap and warm water, then gently dry it before applying the treatment. This can also be done up to 3 to 4 times daily. If your child is under 12 years old, please consult a doctor for guidance before use.

Geriatric Use

When it comes to using this medication in older adults, there is no specific information available about dosage adjustments, safety concerns, or special precautions. This means that if you or a loved one is an older adult, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice. They can help determine the best approach based on individual health needs and any other medications being taken. Always prioritize open communication with your healthcare team to ensure safe and effective treatment.

Renal Impairment

If you have kidney problems, it's important to know that the drug insert does not provide specific information about dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or safety considerations for your condition. This means that there are no tailored guidelines for how this medication should be used if you have renal impairment (kidney issues).

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to ensure that any medication you take is safe and appropriate for your health situation. They can help you understand how to manage your treatment effectively while considering your kidney health.

Hepatic Impairment

If you have liver problems, it's important to know that the drug insert does not provide specific information about dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or precautions for your condition. This means that there are no tailored guidelines for how this medication may affect you if you have hepatic impairment (liver issues).

Before starting any new medication, including this one, you should discuss your liver health with your healthcare provider. They can help determine the best approach for your treatment and ensure your safety.

Drug Interactions

It's important to have open conversations with your healthcare provider about any medications you are taking, even if there are no known drug interactions or laboratory test interactions associated with them. This ensures that your treatment plan is safe and effective for your individual health needs.

Always keep your healthcare team informed about all the medications and supplements you use, as well as any lab tests you may undergo. This way, they can provide the best care tailored to you.

Storage and Handling

To ensure the best performance of your product, store it at a temperature between 20-25°C (68-77°F). This temperature range helps maintain the integrity and effectiveness of the device.

When handling the product, be sure to do so with clean hands and in a clean environment to avoid contamination. Always follow any specific disposal instructions provided to ensure safety and compliance with regulations.

Additional Information

You can use this medication topically to relieve itching caused by skin irritation, inflammation, and rashes. For adults and children aged 2 years and older, apply it to the affected area no more than 3 to 4 times a day. If you're dealing with external anal and genital itching, adults should also apply it to the affected area up to 3 to 4 times daily. Always follow the recommended application frequency for the best results.

FAQ

What is exchange select™ used for?

exchange select™ is used to temporarily relieve itching associated with minor skin irritations, inflammation, and rashes due to conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and insect bites.

What is the active ingredient in exchange select™?

The active ingredient in exchange select™ is 1% Hydrocortisone, which is an anti-itch medication.

How should I apply exchange select™?

For adults and children 2 years and older, apply to the affected area not more than 3 to 4 times daily. For children under 2 years, consult a doctor.

Are there any precautions I should take when using exchange select™?

Yes, avoid contact with eyes, do not use more than directed, and do not apply directly into the rectum.

Can I use exchange select™ if I am pregnant?

Consult a doctor before using exchange select™ if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, as there may be potential risks to the fetus.

What should I do if I experience rectal bleeding while using exchange select™?

Stop using exchange select™ and ask a doctor if rectal bleeding occurs or if your condition worsens.

Is exchange select™ safe for nursing mothers?

There are no specific warnings regarding the use of hydrocortisone cream in nursing mothers mentioned, but consult a healthcare provider for guidance.

What should I do if I accidentally swallow exchange select™?

If swallowed, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away at 1-800-222-1222.

What are the side effects of exchange select™?

Common side effects may include local irritation; however, if symptoms persist or worsen, consult a doctor.

Packaging Info

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Exchange Select Hydrocortisone (hydrocortisone). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Exchange Select Hydrocortisone.
Details

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Exchange Select Hydrocortisone, including active ingredients, dosage, warnings, and labeling as submitted by the manufacturer for OTC distribution.

View product document (PDF)

Description

exchange select™ is an anti-itch cream formulated with a maximum strength of 1% hydrocortisone, designed to provide rapid relief from itching associated with various skin conditions. This product is indicated for the treatment of skin irritation and rashes, inflammation and redness, insect bites, poison ivy, eczema, and psoriasis. It is available without a prescription and is recognized as the #1 doctor-recommended anti-itch active ingredient.

The cream absorbs quickly and includes calming aloe vera as an additional ingredient to enhance its soothing properties. Each container has a net weight of 1 oz (28 g). exchange select™ is positioned as a serious medicine that delivers fast comfort, making it a strong option for those seeking effective relief from itching.

Uses and Indications

This drug is indicated for the temporary relief of itching associated with minor skin irritations, inflammation, and rashes due to various conditions, including eczema, psoriasis, poison ivy, oak, sumac, insect bites, detergents, jewelry, cosmetics, soaps, and seborrheic dermatitis. Additionally, it provides temporary relief for external anal and genital itching.

Other uses of this product should only be undertaken under the advice and supervision of a healthcare professional. There are no teratogenic or nonteratogenic effects associated with this drug.

Dosage and Administration

For the treatment of itching associated with skin irritation, inflammation, and rashes, the following dosing guidelines are recommended:

Adults and children aged 2 years and older should apply the medication to the affected area no more than 3 to 4 times daily. For children under 2 years of age, the use of this medication is not recommended; consultation with a healthcare professional is advised.

In cases of external anal and genital itching in adults, it is advisable to first clean the affected area with mild soap and warm water, ensuring thorough rinsing. After cleansing, the area should be gently dried by patting or blotting with toilet tissue or a soft cloth prior to application. The medication should then be applied to the affected area no more than 3 to 4 times daily. For children under 12 years of age, consultation with a healthcare professional is recommended before use.

Contraindications

Use of this product is contraindicated in the following situations:

  • Application in the genital area is not recommended for patients with vaginal discharge; medical consultation is advised.

  • The product should not be used for the treatment of diaper rash without consulting a healthcare professional.

Patients should discontinue use and seek medical advice if rectal bleeding occurs, if the condition worsens, or if symptoms persist for more than 7 days, or if symptoms resolve and then recur within a few days. Additionally, this product should not be used in conjunction with any other hydrocortisone products unless directed by a physician.

While using this product, it is essential to avoid contact with the eyes. The dosage should not exceed the recommended amount unless specifically instructed by a healthcare provider. Direct application into the rectum using fingers or any mechanical device or applicator is contraindicated.

Warnings and Precautions

For external use only. This product is contraindicated for use in the genital area if there is a vaginal discharge; healthcare professionals should advise patients to consult a doctor in such cases. Additionally, it should not be used for the treatment of diaper rash without prior consultation with a healthcare provider.

When administering this product, it is imperative to avoid contact with the eyes. Patients should be instructed not to exceed the recommended dosage unless directed by a physician. Furthermore, the product should not be introduced directly into the rectum using fingers, mechanical devices, or applicators.

Patients must be advised to discontinue use and seek medical advice if rectal bleeding occurs, if the condition worsens, or if symptoms persist for more than 7 days. If symptoms resolve and then recur within a few days, patients should refrain from using this or any other hydrocortisone product without consulting a healthcare professional.

In the event of accidental ingestion, immediate medical assistance should be sought, or the Poison Control Center should be contacted at 1-800-222-1222.

Side Effects

Patients using this product should be aware that it is intended for external use only. It is contraindicated for use in the genital area if there is a vaginal discharge, and patients are advised to consult a doctor in such cases. Additionally, the product should not be used for the treatment of diaper rash without prior consultation with a healthcare professional.

While using this product, patients should avoid contact with the eyes and adhere strictly to the recommended dosage. It is important not to exceed the directed use unless specifically instructed by a doctor. The product should not be administered directly into the rectum using fingers or any mechanical device or applicator.

Patients are advised to discontinue use and seek medical advice if rectal bleeding occurs, if the condition worsens, or if symptoms persist for more than 7 days. If symptoms clear up and then recur within a few days, patients should refrain from using this or any other hydrocortisone product without consulting a doctor.

Furthermore, this product should be kept out of reach of children. In the event of accidental ingestion, immediate medical assistance should be sought, or the Poison Control Center should be contacted at 1-800-222-1222.

Drug Interactions

No specific drug interactions have been identified in the available data. Additionally, there are no reported interactions with laboratory tests. Therefore, no dosage adjustments or monitoring recommendations are necessary based on the current information.

Packaging & NDC

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Exchange Select Hydrocortisone (hydrocortisone). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Exchange Select Hydrocortisone.
Details

Pediatric Use

Pediatric patients aged 2 years and older may use the medication for the relief of itching associated with skin irritation, inflammation, and rashes. The recommended application is to the affected area not more than 3 to 4 times daily. For children under 2 years of age, the use of this medication is not recommended; consultation with a healthcare provider is advised.

In cases of external anal and genital itching, adults are instructed to clean the affected area with mild soap and warm water, rinsing thoroughly, and then gently drying the area before application. The same frequency of application, not more than 3 to 4 times daily, applies. For pediatric patients under 12 years of age, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider prior to use.

Geriatric Use

Elderly patients may not have specific information regarding the use of this medication, including dosage adjustments, safety concerns, or special precautions. Therefore, healthcare providers should exercise caution when prescribing this medication to geriatric patients. It is advisable to monitor these patients closely for any adverse effects or changes in therapeutic response, given the lack of targeted data for this population.

Pregnancy

The safety of hydrocortisone during pregnancy has not been established. Pregnant patients or those planning to become pregnant should consult a healthcare provider before use. There may be potential risks to the fetus; therefore, hydrocortisone should only be used if clearly needed and if the benefits outweigh the risks. Dosage adjustments may be necessary, and it is essential for healthcare providers to offer guidance on appropriate dosing. Special precautions should be taken, and hydrocortisone should be used under the supervision of a healthcare professional during pregnancy.

Lactation

There are no specific warnings or recommendations regarding the use of hydrocortisone cream in lactating mothers. Additionally, the insert does not provide statements concerning the potential for excretion of hydrocortisone in breast milk or any associated risks to breastfed infants.

Renal Impairment

Patients with renal impairment have not been specifically addressed in the drug insert regarding dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or safety considerations. Therefore, healthcare professionals should exercise caution when prescribing this medication to individuals with reduced kidney function, as there is no available data to guide appropriate dosing or monitoring in this population.

Hepatic Impairment

Patients with hepatic impairment have not been specifically studied in relation to this medication. Consequently, there are no established dosage adjustments, special monitoring requirements, or precautions outlined for individuals with compromised liver function. It is recommended that healthcare providers exercise caution when prescribing this medication to patients with hepatic impairment, given the lack of data on its safety and efficacy in this population. Regular monitoring of liver function may be prudent in these cases, although specific parameters are not defined in the prescribing information.

Overdosage

In the event of an overdosage, immediate medical assistance is crucial. If the substance is ingested, healthcare professionals are advised to seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center without delay. The national Poison Control Center can be reached at 1-800-222-1222.

Prompt intervention is essential to mitigate potential adverse effects associated with overdosage. Symptoms may vary depending on the specific substance involved, and healthcare providers should be prepared to assess and manage these symptoms accordingly.

Management procedures may include supportive care and symptomatic treatment, tailored to the individual patient's needs. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are recommended to ensure patient safety and effective resolution of any complications arising from the overdosage.

Nonclinical Toxicology

No teratogenic or non-teratogenic effects have been reported in the available nonclinical studies. Additionally, there is no information regarding animal pharmacology and toxicology. The absence of data limits the assessment of potential risks associated with the use of the compound in these contexts.

Postmarketing Experience

No postmarketing experience details are available in the insert text.

Patient Counseling

Healthcare providers should advise patients to keep this product out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion. In the event of swallowing the product, patients should seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately at 1-800-222-1222.

Patients should be informed not to use the product in the genital area if they have a vaginal discharge and to consult a doctor in such cases. Additionally, it is important to emphasize that this product is not intended for the treatment of diaper rash, and patients should seek medical advice if they have such a condition.

Healthcare providers should instruct patients to stop using the product and consult a doctor if rectal bleeding occurs. Patients should also be advised to discontinue use and seek medical advice if their condition worsens, if symptoms persist for more than 7 days, or if symptoms clear up and then recur within a few days. It is crucial to inform patients that they should not use this or any other hydrocortisone product without first consulting a doctor.

While using this product, patients should be cautioned to avoid contact with their eyes. Providers should also remind patients not to exceed the directed dosage unless specifically instructed to do so by a healthcare professional. Furthermore, patients should be advised against inserting the product directly into the rectum using fingers or any mechanical device or applicator.

Storage and Handling

The product is supplied in various package configurations, with specific NDC numbers available for identification. It is essential to store the product at a controlled temperature range of 20-25°C (68-77°F) to maintain its integrity and efficacy. Proper storage conditions must be adhered to, ensuring that the product is kept within the specified temperature limits to prevent degradation.

Additional Clinical Information

The medication is administered topically for the treatment of itching associated with skin irritation, inflammation, and rashes in patients aged 2 years and older. It should be applied to the affected area no more than 3 to 4 times daily. For external anal and genital itching in adults, the same frequency of application is recommended.

No additional information is available regarding laboratory tests, abuse potential, patient counseling, or postmarketing experience.

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Exchange Select Hydrocortisone, including active ingredients, dosage, warnings, and labeling as submitted by the manufacturer for OTC distribution.

View product document (PDF)

Data Generation & Sources

This page was automatically generated and is maintained by the AllDrugs AI Data-Science Team. It was built from the FDA Structured Product Label (DailyMed) for Exchange Select Hydrocortisone, retrieved by a validated AI data-extraction workflow.

All FDA-listed dosage forms and strengths are shown in the Packaging & NDC Codes section above. Regulatory status appears in the Summary Information panel above and was verified in the FDA National Drug Code directory and the NSDE NDC Directory daily file.

Note: an automated daemon monitors NSDE checksums; when the record for this NDC changes, the new file is pulled instantly and this page is refreshed.

No human clinician has reviewed this version.

Learn more in our Editorial Policy

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Primary FDA sources:

Orange Book data shown on this page are limited to Regulatory Status (Rx), Established Pharmacologic Class (EPC), and Mechanism of Action (MoA).

Regulatory data notice: Information on this page is reproduced verbatim from FDA public databases (NSDE, Orange Book, Purple Book, DailyMed SPL). NDA/ANDA drugs are FDA-approved, BLA biologics are FDA-licensed. Inclusion alone does not guarantee current market availability or imply FDA endorsement.

Medical disclaimer: This AI-generated content is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional for diagnosis or treatment decisions.