Hydrocortisone is used to reduce inflammation. Commonly prescribed as an oral tablet or cream, this corticosteroid can treat a wide range of conditions. These are detailed below.

Topical hydrocortisone cream is indicated as a treatment for:

• Insect bites
  
• Poison ivy/ poison oak rash
  
• Eczema
  
• Dermatitis (skin irritation)
  
• Allergic reactions
  
• Rash
  
• Vaginal/ anal itching
  

Hydrocortisone capsules are indicated as a treatment for:

• Rheumatoid arthritis
  
• Allergic reactions
  
• Ulcerative colitis (inflammation in the bowels)
  
• Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
  
• Infections such as meningitis and tuberculosis
  
• Adrenocortical deficiency (insufficient production of cortisol)
  
• Anemia
  
• Edema (fluid retention)
  
• Skin infections
  
• Symptoms related to cancer
  

This is not a complete list of conditions hydrocortisone is used to treat. For more information, talk to your health care provider about whether hydrocortisone is right for you.

Hydrocortisone is classified as a corticosteroid. It is the medical version of the naturally occurring hormone cortisol, which helps regulate a number of functions in the body.

Corticosteroid medications work by stopping your immune system from overreacting to triggers; essentially, blocking certain proteins that cause swelling and inflammation. No matter how or where it is used, hydrocortisone works by inhibiting these responses - which can help ease uncomfortable systems and reduce the potentially harmful effects of inflammation.

Hydrocortisone has been shown to cause some side effects. If these mild reactions do not go away within a few days, talk to your health care provider.

Common side effects of oral hydrocortisone tablets include:

• Stomach problems
  
• Vomiting
  
• Acne
  
• Dizziness
  
• Headaches
  
• Muscle weakness
  

Common side effects of topical hydrocortisone creams include:

• Itching, irritation, or dryness of the skin
  
• Hair growth
  
• Small red bumps on the skin
  

This is not a complete list of adverse reactions caused by hydrocortisone. Call your doctor right away if you experience any form of skin rash, swelling, vision problems, or changes in your stool.

As with all prescription medication, be sure to inform the prescribing doctor about any medical conditions you have been previously diagnosed with, as well as any medication/ supplements you are currently taking. In addition, let your doctor know if you are pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant. Hydrocortisone can interact with other forms of medication, causing potentially serious side effects.

The typical starting dose of hydrocortisone depends on your diagnosis, age, and any pre-existing medical conditions you may have.

Most hydrocortisone creams contain 1% hydrocortisone. These topical medications are applied to the affected area 1-4 times a day, depending on need.

Oral dosage for adults starts between 20-240 mg/ day. Talk to your doctor about specific dosage instructions. The starting dosage may be adjusted depending on your need.

Do not discontinue or increase your dosage of hydrocortisone without consulting your doctor first. Take the medication exactly as prescribed, and inform your doctor if you begin to experience any side effects while taking the medication.

Hydrocortisone is currently only available via prescription. This means the use of this drug must be authorized by a licensed health care provider.

Providers on Sesame can write a prescription – or refill an existing one – during a virtual or in-person visit. Depending on the medication, you can arrange for same-day pickup at a pharmacy near you. Book an online consultation with a real, licensed provider on Sesame today to determine whether or not hydrocortisone is right for you.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your health care provider. Providers on Sesame cannot prescribe controlled substances.

Good news! If deemed clinically appropriate, providers on Sesame can write a prescription for hydrocortisone to be picked up near you – often within the same day! Simply talk to a clinician and get your online doctor prescription or refill ordered right away for fast and convenient pickup from a pharmacy of your choice.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your healthcare provider.