Hydrocortisone

Hydrocortisone is an artificial corticosteroids used for external treatment. The drug has a decongestant, anti-inflammatory and antipruritic effect.

In the process of stimulation of glucosteroid endings, the formation of lipocortin is induced. The drug reduces the size of inflammatory cell infiltrates, and also weakens leukocyte migration to the inflammatory zone (this also includes lymphocytes). The use of the medication in the recommended portions does not lead to the appearance of general side symptoms. [1]

Indications Hydrocortisone

It is used to treat inflammation and allergic lesions of the epidermis, which are of non-microbial origin (also accompanied by itching). Among them are contact or allergic dermatitis, pruritus , eczema, erythroderma, seborrhea, as well as psoriasis, neurodermatitis and insect bites.

Release form

The release of the drug is made in the form of a 1% ointment for external treatment procedures, inside tubes with a volume of 5, 10, 15, 20 or 30 g.

Pharmacodynamics

Hydrocortisone reduces the rate of release of cytokines (interferon with interleukins) from macrophages with lymphocytes. It also inhibits the release of inflammatory conductors from eosinophils and disrupts PG binding and metabolic processes of arachidonic acid. [2]

Pharmacokinetics

After treatment with the ointment, the active element accumulates in the epidermis (most of it is inside the granular layer).

Metabolic processes are carried out inside the epidermis, and then proceed inside the liver. [3]

Excretion of the substance occurs through the intestines and kidneys.

Dosing and administration

Hydrocortisone in the form of an ointment is used externally - with a thin layer 2-3 times a day, the affected areas of the epidermis are treated.

The duration of the treatment cycle is determined by the effectiveness of the drug and the nature of the pathology; usually it is 6-14 days. With a severe course of the disease, the cycle can be extended up to 20 days. With a limited area of the lesion, an airtight dressing can be used - this will increase the effectiveness of the drug.

The ointment should be used in children for a period not exceeding a 2-week term. You also need to abandon the methods that potentiate the absorption of the steroid (the use of fixing, hermetic or warming dressings).

• Application for children

Do not use Hydrocortisone in persons under 2 years of age.

Use Hydrocortisone during pregnancy

It is forbidden to prescribe medication during pregnancy.

Contraindications

The main contraindications:

• severe intolerance to hydrocortisone or other elements of the drug;
• ulcers or wounds on the epidermis;
• epidermal lesions of viral, bacterial or fungal origin;
• cutaneous tuberculosis;
• syphilitic lesions on the epidermis;
• common acne and rosacea;
• neoplasms on the skin;
• perioral form of dermatitis.

Side effects Hydrocortisone

The use of the ointment can cause symptoms of hypersensitivity in the form of edema, hyperemia and itching in the treatment areas. Prolonged use can cause hypertrichosis, skin atrophy and the appearance of secondary infections. To prevent the development of infectious lesions, the drug should be used in combination with antimycotics and antibacterial drugs.

The use of a sealed bandage or prolonged use of the drug (especially on large areas of the skin) can cause hypercortisolism.

Overdose

Signs of a drug overdose: the appearance of local negative symptoms.

These manifestations go away on their own after discontinuation of the drug.

Storage conditions

Hydrocortisone must be kept out of the reach of children. Temperature indicators are within 8-15 ° С.

Shelf life

Hydrocortisone can be used for a 5-year term from the date of manufacture of the therapeutic substance.

Analogs

Analogues of the drug are the drugs Latikort, Cortef and Posterisan with Lokoid Lipokrem.