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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 2024
Label revision date
December 26, 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 2024
Label revision date
December 26, 2024
Manufacturer
Safeway
Registration number
M017
NDC root
21130-449
Drug Information (PDF)
Prescribing information, PDF file
Packaging Info (2 NDCs)
Packaging & NDC Codes (2)

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

Hydrocortisone 1% cream is a maximum strength anti-itch cream that contains soothing aloe. It is designed to temporarily relieve itching caused by minor skin irritations, inflammation, and rashes. This cream can be used for various conditions, including eczema, psoriasis, and reactions to poison ivy, oak, or sumac, as well as insect bites and irritations from detergents, jewelry, cosmetics, soaps, and seborrheic dermatitis.

In addition to these uses, hydrocortisone cream can also provide temporary relief for external anal and genital itching. For any other uses, it is important to consult with a doctor for guidance and supervision.

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 like eczema, psoriasis, and reactions to poison ivy, oak, or sumac. It also helps soothe itching from insect bites, detergents, jewelry, cosmetics, soaps, and seborrheic dermatitis. Additionally, it can temporarily relieve itching in the external anal and genital areas.

For any other uses, it's important to consult with your doctor for advice 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 if you are an adult or a child aged 2 years and older. However, if your child is under 2 years old, 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 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, please consult a doctor for guidance.

What to Avoid

It's important to use this medication safely. You should not apply it in the genital area if you have a vaginal discharge or use it for diaper rash; in these cases, please consult your doctor. Additionally, avoid contact with your eyes and do not exceed the recommended dosage unless directed by your healthcare provider. Never insert the medication directly into the rectum using your fingers or any device.

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure your safety and the effectiveness of the treatment. If you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to your healthcare professional.

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 notice that your condition worsens, symptoms persist for more than 7 days, or if you experience rectal bleeding, stop using the product and consult a doctor.

Additionally, 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. Always keep it out of reach of children, and if swallowed, seek medical help immediately or contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.

Warnings and Precautions

This product is for external use only, so please avoid applying it to the genital area if you have a vaginal discharge or for treating diaper rash—consult your doctor in these cases. Be careful to keep it away from your eyes, and do not use more than the recommended amount unless your doctor advises otherwise. It's important not to insert the product directly into the rectum using fingers or any devices.

If your condition worsens, if symptoms last longer than 7 days, or if they clear up and then return within a few days, stop using the product and consult your doctor. Additionally, if you experience rectal bleeding, seek medical advice. In case of accidental ingestion, get 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 can vary, but they may include unusual symptoms that require prompt attention. Always err on the side of caution and reach out for help if you suspect an overdose has occurred. Your safety is the top priority.

Pregnancy Use

If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, it's important to be cautious with certain treatments. Avoid using this product in the genital area if you have a vaginal discharge, and consult your doctor for guidance. If you need to treat diaper rash, it's best to speak with your healthcare provider first.

Additionally, if you have children under 2 years old, do not use this product without consulting a doctor. For children under 12 years, it's advisable to ask a doctor before use. Always prioritize safety and seek professional advice when it comes to your health and your child's health during pregnancy.

Lactation Use

If you are breastfeeding, you can use hydrocortisone cream without specific warnings or recommendations against it. The information available does not indicate any concerns about its use while nursing. Additionally, there are no noted precautions regarding the potential for the cream to be passed into breast milk.

As always, if you have any concerns or questions about using medications 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. Always prioritize your child's safety and seek professional advice when needed.

Geriatric Use

While there is no specific information available about the use of this medication in older adults, it’s important to approach any new treatment with caution. If you or a loved one is an older adult, it’s wise to discuss any potential risks or benefits with a healthcare provider. They can help determine the best course of action, considering any unique health needs or conditions.

Always keep in mind that older adults may have different responses to medications, so regular monitoring and open communication with your healthcare team are essential for safety and effectiveness.

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 may affect you 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 monitor your kidney function and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.

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. In this case, there are no specific drug interactions or laboratory test interactions noted, which means that the medication may not have known conflicts with other drugs or tests. However, every individual is different, and your healthcare provider can help ensure that your treatment is safe and effective based on your unique health situation.

Always remember that discussing your full list of medications and any lab tests with your healthcare provider is crucial. This way, you can avoid potential issues and receive the best care possible.

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 its effectiveness and safety.

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

Additional Information

You should apply this medication topically to the affected area, using it no more than 3 to 4 times a day. If you're treating external anal and genital itching, it's best to first clean the area with mild soap and warm water, rinse thoroughly, and gently dry it by patting or blotting with toilet tissue or a soft cloth before applying the medication. This will help ensure the best results.

FAQ

What is Hydrocortisone 1% Cream used for?

Hydrocortisone 1% Cream is used to temporarily relieve itching associated with minor skin irritations, inflammation, and rashes, including conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and insect bites.

How should I apply Hydrocortisone 1% Cream?

For adults and children 2 years and older, apply to the affected area not more than 3 to 4 times daily. For external anal and genital itching, clean the area first, then apply the cream.

Are there any age restrictions for using this cream?

Do not use Hydrocortisone 1% Cream on children under 2 years of age without consulting a doctor. For children under 12 years, consult a doctor for external anal and genital itching.

What precautions should I take when using this cream?

Avoid contact with the eyes, do not use more than directed unless advised by a doctor, and do not apply directly into the rectum.

What should I do if my condition worsens?

Stop using the cream and consult a doctor if your condition worsens, symptoms persist for more than 7 days, or if rectal bleeding occurs.

Can I use this cream for diaper rash?

No, do not use Hydrocortisone 1% Cream for the treatment of diaper rash; consult a doctor instead.

What should I do if I swallow the cream?

If swallowed, seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately at 1-800-222-1222.

How should I store Hydrocortisone 1% Cream?

Store the cream at a temperature between 20-25°C (68-77°F).

Packaging Info

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

Packaging configurations for Hydrocortisone.
Details

Drug Information (PDF)

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

View product document (PDF)

Description

Hydrocortisone 1% cream is a topical formulation designed for the relief of itching. This maximum strength cream incorporates soothing aloe to enhance its calming properties. The product is packaged in a net weight of 1 ounce (28 grams).

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, poison oak, poison sumac, insect bites, and reactions to detergents, jewelry, cosmetics, and soaps. Additionally, it provides temporary relief for external anal and genital itching.

Limitations of use: Other applications of this product should only be undertaken under the advice and supervision of a healthcare professional.

Dosage and Administration

For the treatment of itching associated with skin irritation, inflammation, and rashes, the recommended dosage for adults and children aged 2 years and older is to apply the product to the affected area no more than 3 to 4 times daily. For children under 2 years of age, the use of this product 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 product should then be applied to the affected area no more than 3 to 4 times daily. For children under 12 years of age, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional before use.

Contraindications

Use is contraindicated in the following situations:

The product should not be applied to the genital area in the presence of vaginal discharge; medical consultation is advised. Additionally, it is contraindicated for the treatment of diaper rash, and a healthcare professional should be consulted in such cases.

Contact with the eyes must be avoided. The product should not be used in excess of the directed dosage unless specifically instructed by a physician. Furthermore, direct application into the rectum using fingers, mechanical devices, or applicators is prohibited.

Warnings and Precautions

This product is intended for external use only. It is imperative that healthcare professionals advise patients against using this product in the genital area if they are experiencing vaginal discharge; consultation with a physician is recommended in such cases. Additionally, this product should not be utilized for the treatment of diaper rash without prior medical consultation.

Healthcare professionals should instruct patients to avoid contact with the eyes while using this product. It is crucial that patients adhere to the recommended dosage and refrain from exceeding the directed amount unless specifically instructed to do so by a healthcare provider. Furthermore, patients should be cautioned against inserting the product directly into the rectum using fingers, mechanical devices, or applicators.

Patients must be advised to discontinue use and seek medical advice if their condition worsens, if symptoms persist for more than 7 days, or if symptoms resolve only to recur within a few days. It is also important to inform patients not to initiate the use of any other hydrocortisone products without consulting a healthcare professional.

In the event of rectal bleeding, patients should stop using the product and consult a physician immediately. If the product is ingested, it is critical to seek medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center promptly at 1-800-222-1222.

Side Effects

Patients using this product should be aware that it is 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, this 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. Furthermore, patients should refrain from inserting the product directly into the rectum using fingers or any mechanical device or applicator.

Patients are advised to discontinue use and consult a doctor 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 also crucial to seek medical advice if rectal bleeding occurs.

This product should be kept out of reach of children. In the event of accidental ingestion, patients should seek medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center immediately 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 Hydrocortisone. Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for 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 doctor is advised.

In cases of external anal and genital itching, the same application frequency applies for adults. It is recommended that the affected area be cleaned with mild soap and warm water, rinsed thoroughly, and gently dried by patting or blotting with toilet tissue or a soft cloth prior to application. For pediatric patients under 12 years of age, it is advised to consult a doctor before use.

Geriatric Use

There is no specific information available regarding the use of this medication in geriatric patients, including dosage adjustments, safety concerns, or special precautions. Healthcare providers should exercise caution when prescribing this medication to elderly patients, as individual responses may vary. It is advisable to monitor these patients closely for any adverse effects or changes in efficacy, given the lack of targeted data for this population.

Pregnancy

Pregnant patients should be advised against using this product in the genital area if they have a vaginal discharge and are encouraged to consult a healthcare professional for guidance. For the treatment of diaper rash, it is recommended that pregnant patients seek medical advice prior to use.

Additionally, this product is not indicated for use in children under 2 years of age, and those under 12 years of age should also consult a doctor before use. The safety and efficacy of this product in pregnant patients and young children have not been established, and caution is advised.

Lactation

There are no specific warnings or recommendations regarding the use of hydrocortisone cream in lactating mothers. Additionally, there are no specific considerations or precautions related to lactation or the potential for excretion of hydrocortisone in breast milk. Therefore, healthcare professionals may consider the use of this medication in nursing mothers without specific concerns related to breastfeeding.

Renal Impairment

Patients with renal impairment have no specific information regarding dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or safety considerations provided in the drug insert. Therefore, healthcare professionals should exercise caution when prescribing this medication to individuals with reduced kidney function, as the lack of data necessitates careful clinical judgment. Regular monitoring of renal function may be advisable in these patients to ensure safety and efficacy.

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 product is ingested, healthcare professionals should advise patients or caregivers 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 compound in these areas.

Postmarketing Experience

No postmarketing experience details are available in the provided data.

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 assistance 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 communicate that this product is not intended for the treatment of diaper rash, and patients should seek medical advice if they have such a condition.

Patients should be instructed to stop using the product and consult a doctor if their condition worsens, if symptoms persist for more than 7 days, or if symptoms clear up and then recur within a few days. They should also be advised not to begin the use of any other hydrocortisone product without first consulting a doctor. Furthermore, patients should be made aware that they need to stop using the product and seek medical attention if rectal bleeding occurs.

While using this product, patients should avoid contact with the eyes. It is essential to emphasize that patients should not exceed the recommended dosage unless directed by a doctor. Lastly, patients should be cautioned 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 should be stored at a controlled room temperature of 20-25°C (68-77°F). Care should be taken to ensure that the storage environment maintains this temperature range to preserve the integrity of the product.

Additional Clinical Information

The medication is administered topically, with a recommended application frequency of no more than 3 to 4 times daily for both adults and children aged 2 years and older. For external anal and genital itching in adults, it is advised to clean the affected area with mild soap and warm water, rinse thoroughly, and gently dry by patting or blotting with toilet tissue or a soft cloth prior to application.

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 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 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.