Hi-Cor - Talk Medical

Generic Name: hydrocortisone topical

Brands: Cortaid, Cortizone-10, Cortizone-5, Dermarest Dricort, Dermarest Plus Anti-Itch, Hydrocort cream, Hytone, Locoid, Neutrogena T-Scalp, Westcort

What is the most important information I should know about Hi-Cor?

· Do not use plastic bandages, dressings, or diapers that do not allow air to circulate to the area (occlusive dressings) unless your doctor directs you to do so. The use of occlusive dressings can greatly increase the amount of drug the body absorbs. If you do use an occlusive dressing, do not use it for more than 12 hours a day.

· Do not use Hi-Cor to treat any area of the body that it is not prescribed for. This could be dangerous.

· Use Hi-Cor cautiously, and only under the supervision of a doctor, to treat a child. Children are more sensitive to the effects of Hi-Cor.

What is Hi-Cor?

· Hydrocortisone is a topical steroid. It reduces or inhibits the actions of chemicals in the body that cause inflammation, redness, and swelling.

· Hydrocortisone is used to treat inflammation caused by a number of conditions such as allergic reactions, eczema, and psoriasis.

· Hi-Cor may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using Hi-Cor?

· Return to your doctor if the condition does not improve or if it gets worse. Hi-Cor alone will not treat the condition if it is a bacterial, fungal, or viral infection.

· Hi-Cor is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether Hi-Cor will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not use this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. If it is necessary to use hydrocortisone during pregnancy, the smallest amount possible should be applied, for the shortest time necessary to treat the condition, under the supervision of a doctor.

· It is not known whether hydrocortisone passes into breast milk. Do not use Hi-Cor without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

· Use Hi-Cor cautiously, and only under the supervision of a doctor, to treat a child. Children are more sensitive to the effects of Hi-Cor.

How should I use Hi-Cor?

· Apply the medication exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

· Wash your hands before and after each application, unless you are using Hi-Cor to treat a hand condition.

· Apply a small amount to the affected area and rub it gently into the skin.

· Use caution on areas where the skin creases, such as armpits, knees, and elbows. These areas may absorb more medication. Also, avoid the eyes, mouth, and mucous membranes.

· If you need to protect the area, it can be covered with a breathable cotton-gauze dressing. Avoid using plastic, occlusive dressings that do not allow air to circulate to the area. Plastic pants and diapers may be harmful if used over hydrocortisone on a child.

· It is important to use Hi-Cor regularly to get the most benefit.

· Do not use Hi-Cor to treat any area of the body that it is not prescribed for. This could be dangerous.

· Store Hi-Cor at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

· Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the dose you missed and apply the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not use a double dose of this medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

What happens if I overdose?

· An overdose of Hi-Cor is not likely to occur If the medication is ingested, or if a large amount is used over a large area and side effects are being experienced, call an emergency room or a poison control center near you.

What should I avoid while using Hi-Cor?

· Avoid using other topical medications, harsh or abrasive soaps, or cosmetics on the affected area without first talking to your doctor.

What are the possible side effects of Hi-Cor?

· No serious systemic side effects are expected unless a large amount of Hi-Cor is used for a long period of time. If the drug is being absorbed into your system, you may experience blurred vision, halos around lights, an irregular heartbeat, insomnia, mood changes, weight gain, or fatigue. If you experience any unusual side effects, notify your doctor.

· Less serious side effects are more likely to occur. You may experience some redness, blistering, burning, itching, or peeling. Continue to use Hi-Cor and talk to your doctor about your side effects.

· Other local side effects may also occur, especially with prolonged use of Hi-Cor. These include thinning of the skin, prolonged redness, and stretch marks.

· Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect Hi-Cor?

· Avoid using other topical medications, harsh or abrasive soaps, or cosmetics on the affected area without first talking to your doctor.

· Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with Hi-Cor. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking or using any other prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products.

Where can I get more information?

· Your pharmacist has additional information about hydrocortisone written for health professionals that you may read.

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