Hydrocortisone topical
CORTIZONE-10
Pronunciation: hye-droe-KOR-ti-soen
What it isTopical glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid agonist; mild eczema, dermatitis, and inflammatory itching.
Why this oneIts low potency and OTC availability make it the topical steroid of choice for thin skin and sensitive sites.
What limits itProlonged, occluded, or extensive use causes skin atrophy and can suppress the adrenal axis; infection may be masked.
FDA label
Read the full label on DailyMed ↗
| FDA dosing | Population | Start | Target | Max |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temporary relief of itching from minor skin irritations, inflammation, and rashes (eczema, psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, insect bites, poison ivy/oak/sumac, soaps, detergents, cosmetics, jewelry) | Adults & children ≥2 yr | Apply a thin layer to the affected area | Apply a thin layer to the affected area | 3–4 times daily |
Renal Undefined
Hepatic Undefined
Instructions
- Apply a thin layer to the affected area not more than 3 to 4 times daily
- For external use only; do not use in the eyes
- Do not use on large areas of the body; do not tightly bandage or cover the treated area unless directed by a doctor
- Children under 2 years: do not use, consult a doctor
Available strengths
- cream 0.2, 1, 2.5 %
- tab 5, 10, 20 mg
- granules 0.5, 1, 2, 5 mg
- sol 2.5 %
- sol 1 mg/mL
- susp 100 mg/60 mL
- enema 100 mg/60 mL
- foam 1500 mg/15 g
- + 16 other marketed forms not shown
Contraindications
- Do not use in the eyes
- Do not use for treatment of diaper rash unless directed by a doctor
- Do not use for genital or feminine itching if you have a vaginal discharge
Cautions
- For external use only
- Ask a doctor before use if using any other hydrocortisone product
- Do not use more than directed, on large areas, or tightly bandage/cover unless directed
- Stop use and ask a doctor if condition worsens, symptoms persist more than 7 days, symptoms clear and recur within a few days, or irritation develops
Adverse reactions
- Local irritation (stop use if it develops)
Pregnancy Undefined
Lactation Undefined
Cost
Hydrocortisone topical (CORTIZONE-10)
| Strength | #/mo | generic $/unit | CostPlus | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0.2 % | cream | per unit | not offered | |
| 1 % | cream | per unit | not offered | |
| 2.5 % | cream | per unit | not offered |
NADAC is a voluntary CMS survey of what retail community pharmacies pay for the drugs they stock. Hydrocortisone topical is dispensed outside retail pharmacies, so it rarely appears on surveyed invoices.
Other forms: Hydrocortisone (CORTEF cortisol)
NO BOXED WARNINGS