Medication reference
Hydrocortisone
Corticosteroid [EPC] — TOPICAL · RECTAL · ORAL · AURICULAR (OTIC) · INTRAMUSCULAR · INTRAVENOUS
Hydrocortisone — Corticosteroid [EPC]. INDICATIONS AND USAGE Hydrocortisone Tablets are indicated in the following conditions. 1. Endocrine Disorders Primary or secondary adrenocortical ins

Boxed warning
FOR USE IN THE EARS ONLY
Brand names
CortifoamHydrocortisone AcetateHYDROCORTISONE ACETATEProctocortAnusol HCHydrocortisoneProcto-Med HCHYDROCORTISONEhydrocortisoneKhindiviTexacortAlkindi SprinkleHydrocortisone Rectal Suspension (Retention)Proctosol-HCAla-ScalpCORTEFHydroxymCortenemaNeomycin and Polymyxin B Sulfates and HydrocortisoneNEOMYCIN AND POLYMYXIN B SULFATES AND HYDROCORTISONEHydrocortisone ButyrateEvesseHYDROCORTISONE VALERATEHydrocortisone Valerate
Active ingredients
HYDROCORTISONE ACETATEHYDROCORTISONENEOMYCIN SULFATEPOLYMYXIN B SULFATEHYDROCORTISONE BUTYRATEHYDROCORTISONE VALERATELIDOCAINE HYDROCHLORIDEHYDROCORTISONE SODIUM SUCCINATE
Indications
INDICATIONS AND USAGE Hydrocortisone Tablets are indicated in the following conditions. 1. Endocrine Disorders Primary or secondary adrenocortical insufficiency (hydrocortisone or cortisone is the first choice; synthetic analogs may be used in conjunction with mineralocorticoids where applicable; in infancy mineralocorticoid supplementation is of particular importance) Congenital adrenal hyperplasia Non suppurative thyroiditis Hypercalcemia associated with cancer 2. Rheumatic Disorders As adjunctive therapy for short-term administration (to tide the patient over an acute episode or exacerbation) in: Psoriatic arthritis Rheumatoid arthritis, including juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (selected cases may require low-dose maintenance therapy) Ankylosing spondylitis Acute and subacute bursitis Acute nonspecific tenosynovitis Acute gouty arthritis Post-traumatic osteoarthritis Synovitis of osteoarthritis Epicondylitis 3. Collagen Diseases During an exacerbation or as maintenance therapy in selected cases of: Systemic lupus erythematosus Systemic dermatomyositis (polymyositis) Acute rheumatic carditis 4. Dermatologic Diseases Pemphigus Bullous dermatitis herpetiformis Severe erythema multiforme (Stevens-Johnson syndrome) Exfoliative dermatitis Mycosis fungoides Severe psoriasis Severe seborrheic dermatitis 5. Allergic States Control of severe or incapacitating allergic conditions intractable to adequate trials of conventional treatment: Seasonal or perennial allergic rhinitis Serum sickness Bronchial asthma Contact dermatitis Atopic dermatitis Drug hypersensitivity reactions 6. Ophthalmic Diseases Severe acute and chronic allergic and inflammatory processes involving the eye and its adnexa such as: Allergic conjunctivitis Keratitis Allergic corneal marginal ulcers Herpes zoster ophthalmicus Iritis and iridocyclitis Chorioretinitis Anterior segment inflammation Diffuse posterior uveitis and choroiditis Optic neuritis Sympathetic ophthalmia 7. Respiratory Diseases Symptomatic sarcoidosis Loeffler's syndrome not manageable by other means Berylliosis Fulminating or disseminated pulmonary tuberculosis when used concurrently with appropriate antituberculous chemotherapy Aspiration pneumonitis 8. Hematologic Disorders Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura in adults Secondary thrombocytopenia in adults Acquired (autoimmune) hemolytic anemia Erythroblastopenia (RBC anemia) Congenital (erythroid) hypoplastic anemia 9. Neoplastic Diseases For palliative management of: Leukemias and lymphomas in adults Acute leukemia of childhood 10. Edematous States To induce a diuresis or remission of proteinuria in the nephrotic syndrome, without uremia, of the idiopathic type or that due to lupus erythematosus. 11. Gastrointestinal Diseases To tide the patient over a critical period of the disease in: Ulcerative colitis Regional enteritis 12. Miscellaneous Tuberculous meningitis with subarachnoid block or impending block when used concurrently with appropriate antituberculous chemotherapy Trichinosis with neurologic or myocardial involvement 1. Endocrine Disorders Primary or secondary adrenocortical insufficiency (hydrocortisone or cortisone is the first choice; synthetic analogs may be used in conjunction with mineralocorticoids where applicable; in infancy mineralocorticoid supplementation is of particular importance) Congenital adrenal hyperplasia Non suppurative thyroiditis Hypercalcemia associated with cancer 2. Rheumatic Disorders As adjunctive therapy for short-term administration (to tide the patient over an acute episode or exacerbation) in: Psoriatic arthritis Rheumatoid arthritis, including juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (selected cases may require low-dose maintenance therapy) Ankylosing spondylitis Acute and subacute bursitis Acute nonspecific tenosynovitis Acute gouty arthritis Post-traumatic osteoarthritis Synovitis of osteoarthritis Epicondylitis 3. Collagen Diseases During an exacerbation or as maintenance therapy in selected cases of: Systemic lupus erythematosus Systemic dermatomyositis (polymyositis) Acute rheumatic carditis 4. Dermatologic Diseases Pemphigus Bullous dermatitis herpetiformis Severe erythema multiforme (Stevens-Johnson syndrome) Exfoliative dermatitis Mycosis fungoides Severe psoriasis Severe seborrheic dermatitis 5. Allergic States Control of severe or incapacitating allergic conditions intractable to adequate trials of conventional treatment: Seasonal or perennial allergic rhinitis Serum sickness Bronchial asthma Contact dermatitis Atopic dermatitis Drug hypersensitivity reactions 6. Ophthalmic Diseases Severe acute and chronic allergic and inflammatory processes involving the eye and its adnexa such as: Allergic conjunctivitis Keratitis Allergic corneal marginal ulcers Herpes zoster ophthalmicus Iritis and iridocyclitis Chorioretinitis Anterior segment inflammation Diffuse posterior uveitis and choroiditis Optic neuritis Sympathetic ophthalmia 7. Respiratory Diseases Symptomatic sarcoidosis Loeffler's syndrome not manageable by other means Berylliosis Fulminating or disseminated pulmonary tuberculosis when used concurrently with appropriate antituberculous chemotherapy Aspiration pneumonitis 8. Hematologic Disorders Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura in adults Secondary thrombocytopenia in adults Acquired (autoimmune) hemolytic anemia Erythroblastopenia (RBC anemia) Congenital (erythroid) hypoplastic anemia 9. Neoplastic Diseases For palliative management of: Leukemias and lymphomas in adults Acute leukemia of childhood 10. Edematous States To induce a diuresis or remission of proteinuria in the nephrotic syndrome, without uremia, of the idiopathic type or that due to lupus erythematosus. 11. Gastrointestinal Diseases To tide the patient over a critical period of the disease in: Ulcerative colitis Regional enteritis 12. Miscellaneous Tuberculous meningitis with subarachnoid block or impending block when used concurrently with appropriate antituberculous chemotherapy Trichinosis with neurologic or myocardial involvement
Dosage
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Because of possible physical incompatibilities, SOLU-CORTEF should not be diluted or mixed with other solutions. Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration, whenever solution and container permit. This preparation may be administered by intravenous injection, by intravenous infusion, or by intramuscular injection, the preferred method for initial emergency use being intravenous injection. Following the initial emergency period, consideration should be given to employing a longer acting injectable preparation or an oral preparation. Therapy is initiated by administering SOLU-CORTEF Sterile Powder intravenously over a period of 30 seconds (e.g., 100 mg) to 10 minutes (e.g., 500 mg or more). In general, high dose corticosteroid therapy should be continued only until the patient's condition has stabilized, usually not beyond 48 hours to 72 hours. When high dose hydrocortisone therapy must be continued beyond 48 –72 hours, hypernatremia may occur. Under such circumstances, it may be desirable to replace SOLU-CORTEF with a corticoid such as methylprednisolone sodium succinate which causes little or no sodium retention. The initial dose of SOLU-CORTEF Sterile Powder is 100 mg to 500 mg, depending on the specific disease entity being treated. However, in certain overwhelming, acute, life-threatening situations, administration in dosages exceeding the usual dosages may be justified and may be in multiples of the oral dosages. This dose may be repeated at intervals of 2, 4, or 6 hours as indicated by the patient's response and clinical condition. It Should Be Emphasized that Dosage Requirements Are Variable and Must Be Individualized on the Basis of the Disease Under Treatment and the Response of the Patient. After a favorable response is noted, the proper maintenance dosage should be determined by decreasing the initial drug dosage in small decrements at appropriate time intervals until the lowest dosage that maintains an adequate clinical response is reached. Situations that may make dosage adjustments necessary are changes in clinical status secondary to remissions or exacerbations in the disease process, the patient's individual drug responsiveness, and the effect of patient exposure to stressful situations not directly related to the disease entity under treatment. In this latter situation, it may be necessary to increase the dosage of the corticosteroid for a period of time consistent with the patient's condition. If after long-term therapy the drug is to be stopped, it is recommended that it be withdrawn gradually rather than abruptly. In pediatric patients, the initial dose of hydrocortisone may vary depending on the specific disease entity being treated. The range of initial doses is 0.56 mg/kg/day to 8 mg/kg/day in three or four divided doses (20 mg/m 2 bsa/day to 240 mg/m 2 bsa/day). For the purpose of comparison, the following is the equivalent milligram dosage of the various glucocorticoids: Cortisone, 25 Triamcinolone, 4 Hydrocortisone, 20 Paramethasone, 2 Prednisolone, 5 Betamethasone, 0.75 Prednisone, 5 Dexamethasone, 0.75 Methylprednisolone, 4 These dose relationships apply only to oral or intravenous administration of these compounds. When these substances or their derivatives are injected intramuscularly or into joint spaces, their relative properties may be greatly altered. Preparation of Solutions: 100 mg Plain For intravenous or intramuscular injection, prepare solution by aseptically adding not more than 2 mL of Bacteriostatic Water for Injection or Bacteriostatic Sodium Chloride Injection to the contents of one vial. For intravenous infusion , first prepare solution by adding not more than 2 mL of Bacteriostatic Water for Injection to the vial; this solution may then be added to 100 mL to 1,000 mL of the following: 5% dextrose in water (or isotonic saline solution or 5% dextrose in isotonic saline solution if patient is not on sodium restriction). From a microbiological point of view, unless the method of opening/reconstitution/dilution precludes the risk of microbial contamination, the product should be used immediately. If not used immediately, in use storage times and conditions are the responsibility of the user. This product, like many other steroid formulations, is sensitive to heat. Therefore, it should not be autoclaved when it is desirable to sterilize the exterior of the vial. DIRECTIONS FOR USING THE ACT-O-VIAL SYSTEM 1. Press down on plastic activator to force diluent into the lower compartment. 2. Gently agitate to effect solution. 3. Remove plastic tab covering center of stopper. 4. Sterilize top of stopper with a suitable germicide. 5. Insert needle squarely through center of stopper until tip is just visible. Invert vial and withdraw dose. Further dilution is not necessary for intravenous or intramuscular injection. For intravenous infusion, first prepare solution as just described. The 100 mg solution may then be added to 100 mL to 1,000 mL of 5% dextrose in water (or isotonic saline solution or 5% dextrose in isotonic saline solution if patient is not on sodium restriction). The 250 mg solution may be added to 250 mL to 1,000 mL, the 500 mg solution may be added to 500 mL to 1,000 mL, and the 1,000 mg solution to 1,000 mL of the same diluents. In cases where administration of a small volume of fluid is desirable, 100 mg to 3,000 mg of SOLU-CORTEF may be added to 50 mL of the above diluents. The resulting solutions are stable for at least 4 hours and may be administered either directly or by IV piggyback. When reconstituted as directed, pH's of the solutions range from 7 to 8. Image
Warnings
WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Adrenal Crisis : Undertreatment, sudden discontinuation of therapy, or switching from another oral hydrocortisone formulation may lead to adrenocortical insufficiency, adrenal crisis and death. Adrenal crisis may also be induced by stress events such as infections or surgery. During periods of stress switch to another oral hydrocortisone product and increase the dose. Switch patients who are vomiting, severely ill or unable to take oral medications to parenteral corticosteroid formulations. ( 5.1 ) Systemic Adverse Reactions Due to Inactive Ingredients : KHINDIVI contains the inactive ingredients polyethylene glycol 400, propylene and glycol, and glycerin, which may cause hyperosmolarity, metabolic acidosis, hypoglycemia, hepato-renal injury, central nervous toxicity, gastrointestinal adverse reactions. Discontinue KHINDIVI and switch to another hydrocortisone product if these adverse reactions occur. ( 5.2 ) Immunosuppression and Increased Risk of Infection with Use of a Dosage Greater Than Replacement : Use of a greater than replacement dosage can suppress the immune system and increase the risks of new infections or exacerbation of latent infections with any pathogen, including viral, bacterial, fungal, protozoan, or helminthic infections. Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of infections. ( 5.3 ) Growth Retardation : Long-term use in excessive doses may cause growth retardation. Use the minimum dosage of KHINDIVI to achieve desired clinical response and monitor the patient's growth. ( 5.4 ) Cushing's Syndrome Due to Use of Excessive Doses of Corticosteroids : Prolonged use with supraphysiologic doses may cause Cushing's syndrome. Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of Cushing's syndrome every 6 months. ( 5.5 ) Decrease in Bone Mineral Density : Corticosteroids decrease bone formation and increase bone resorption which may lead to inhibition of bone growth and development of osteoporosis. Use the minimum dosage of KHINDIVI to achieve desired clinical response.( 5.6 ) Psychiatric Adverse Reactions : Use may be associated with severe psychiatric adverse reactions such as euphoria, mania, psychosis with hallucinations and delirium or depression. Symptoms typically emerge within a few days or weeks of starting the treatment. Most reactions resolve after either dose reduction or withdrawal, although specific treatment may be necessary. Monitor patients for behavioral and mood disturbances during treatment. Instruct caregivers and/or patients to seek medical advice if psychiatric symptoms develop. ( 5.7 ) Ophthalmic Adverse Reactions : Cataracts, glaucoma and central serous chorioretinopathy have been reported with prolonged use of high doses. Monitor patients for blurred vision or other visual disturbances and if they occur, refer them to an ophthalmologist. ( 5.8 ) Gastrointestinal Adverse Reactions : Increased risk in patients with certain gastrointestinal disorders. Signs and symptoms may be masked. ( 5.9 ) 5.1 Adrenal Crisis Undertreatment with KHINDIVI or sudden discontinuation of therapy with KHINDIVI may lead to adrenocortical insufficiency, adrenal crisis, and death. Adrenal crisis may also be induced by stress events such as infections or surgery when patients require higher doses of corticosteroids. Symptoms of adrenocortical insufficiency include poor feeding, fatigue, low muscle tone, joint pain, nausea, vomiting, hypoglycemia, low blood pressure and electrolyte disturbances. During periods of stress (e.g., infections, surgery), switch to another oral hydrocortisone product and increase the dose, if oral medications are tolerated. Switch patients who are vomiting, severely ill, or unable to take oral medications to parenteral corticosteroid formulations without delay. Once the patient recovers, gradually reduce the steroid dosage used during the acute event and do not switch back to KHINDIVI until the maintenance dosage can be resumed. KHINDIVI is not approved for stress dosing. KHINDIVI contains inactive ingredients polyethylene glycol 400, propylene glycol, and glycerin at levels that individually or in combination may result in hyperosmolarity, metabolic acidosis, hypoglycemia, hepato-renal injury, central nervous system toxicity (e.g., seizure and coma) and/or gastrointestinal adverse reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] . Use of KHINDIVI for stress dosing will result in a greater exposure to inactive ingredients and may increase the risk of these adverse reactions. When switching patients to KHINDIVI from other oral hydrocortisone formulations, consider the potential for dosing inaccuracy if other oral hydrocortisone formulations have been manipulated (e.g., split or crushed tablets, compounded formulations). Manipulation of oral hydrocortisone formulations may result in a relative difference in hydrocortisone exposure when using the same dosage to initiate KHINDIVI treatment. Monitor patients after switching to KHINDIVI to ensure KHINDIVI is providing the same level of hydrocortisone exposure as the previously used oral hydrocortisone formulation. If symptoms of adrenal insufficiency occur, increase the total daily dosage of KHINDIVI. 5.2 Systemic Adverse Reactions Due to Inactive Ingredients Hyperosmolarity KHINDIVI is not approved in pediatric patients less than 5 years of age. KHINDIVI contains the inactive ingredients polyethylene glycol 400, propylene glycol, and glycerin, which undergo substantial systemic absorption. These inactive ingredients, individually or in combination may increase plasma osmolarity in all pediatric patients, especially in pediatric patients less than 5 years of age due to incomplete maturity of the alcohol dehydrogenase enzyme that metabolizes propylene glycol and polyethylene glycol 400. Monitor pediatric patients using KHINDIVI for signs and symptoms consistent with hyperosmolarity. Discontinue KHINDIVI and switch to another hydrocortisone formulation if this occurs. Metabolic Acidosis and Other Adverse Reactions KHINDIVI contains the inactive ingredient polyethylene glycol 400 and propylene glycol that may result in metabolic acidosis, hypoglycemia, hepato-renal injury, and central nervous system toxicity (e.g., seizure and coma). These adverse reactions may increase the risk of adrenal crisis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] . Monitor laboratory values and for physical signs and symptoms of these adverse reactions. Discontinue KHINDIVI and switch to another hydrocortisone formulation if these adverse reactions occur. Laxative Effects Due to Inactive Ingredients KHINDIVI contains the inactive ingredients polyethylene glycol 400 and glycerin, which alone or in combination, may cause gastrointestinal irritation resulting in vomiting and/or diarrhea. These gastrointestinal reactions may increase the risk of adrenal crisis in patients with adrenal insufficiency [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] . Monitor for signs or symptoms of gastrointestinal irritation and associated fluid and electrolyte abnormalities. Discontinue KHINDIVI and switch to another hydrocortisone formulation if these adverse reactions occur. 5.3 Immunosuppression and Increased Risk of Infection with Use of a Dosage Greater Than Replacement Use of the recommended dosage of KHINDIVI [see Dosage and Administration (2.1 , 2.2) ] as a replacement therapy in pediatric patients with adrenocortical insufficiency is not expected to cause immunosuppression or increase the risk of infection. The use of a greater than replacement dosage can suppress the immune system and increase the risk of infection with any pathogen, including viral, bacterial, fungal, protozoan, or helminthic pathogens. The use of KHINDIVI at greater than replacement dosage can: Reduce resistance to new infections Exacerbate existing infections Increase the risk of disseminated infections Increase the risk of reactivation or exacerbation of latent infections Mask some signs of infection Infections associated with the use of
Contraindications
CONTRAINDICATIONS: Product should not be used in patients with a history of sensitivity to any of its ingredients or adverse reactions to lidocaine or amide anesthetics, which usually do not cross-react with “caine” ester type anesthetics. If excessive irritation and significant worsening occur, discontinue use and seek the advice of your physician. Product and topical lidocaine should be used cautiously in those with impaired liver function, as well as the very ill or very elderly and those with significant liver disease. Product should be used with caution on patients receiving antiarrhythmic drugs of Class I since the adverse effects are additive and generally synergistic. These products are contraindicated for tuberculous or fungal lesions or skin vaccinia, varicella and acute herpes simplex. Topical corticosteroids are contraindicated in those patients with a history of hypersensitivity to any of the components of the preparation.
Drug interactions
DRUG INTERACTIONS Table 2 Drug Interactions with ALKINDI SPRINKLE CYP3A4 Inhibitors Clinical Impact: Hydrocortisone is metabolized by cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4). Concomitant administration of inhibitors of CYP3A4 may lead to increases in serum concentrations of ALKINDI SPRINKLE and increase the risk of adverse reactions associated with the use of excessive doses. Intervention: Concomitant use of CYP3A4 inhibitors may require a decrease in the ALKINDI SPRINKLE dose. Examples: Anti-fungals: itraconazole, posaconazole, voriconazole Antibiotics: erythromycin and clarithromycin Antiretrovirals: ritonavir Grapefruit juice CYP3A4 Inducers Clinical Impact: Hydrocortisone is metabolized by cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4). Concomitant administration of inducers of CYP3A4 may lead to decreases in serum concentrations of ALKINDI SPRINKLE and increase the risk of adverse reactions, including adrenal crisis. Intervention: Concomitant use of CYP3A4 inducers may require an increase in the ALKINDI SPRINKLE dose. Examples: Anticonvulsants: phenytoin, carbamazepine and oxcarbazepine Antibiotics: rifampicin and rifabutin Barbiturates: phenobarbital and primidone Antiretrovirals: efavirenz and nevirapine Estrogen and Estrogen Containing Products Clinical Impact: Oral estrogen and estrogen-containing oral contraceptives may interact with hydrocortisone by increasing serum cortisol-binding globulin (CBG) concentration. Concomitant use may reduce the efficacy of ALKINDI SPRINKLE by binding and delaying or preventing absorption. Intervention: Concomitant use of estrogen/estrogen containing products may require an increase in the ALKINDI SPRINKLE dose. Antidiabetic Agents Clinical Impact: Corticosteroids in supraphysiologic doses may increase blood glucose concentrations. Intervention: Use of ALKINDI SPRINKLE in supraphysiologic doses may require a dose adjustment of antidiabetic agents. Anticoagulant Agents Clinical Impact: Concomitant use of warfarin and corticosteroids usually results in inhibition of response to warfarin, although there have been some conflicting reports. Intervention: Monitor coagulation indices in patients receiving ALKINDI SPRINKLE and concomitant warfarin to maintain the desired anticoagulant effect. Cyclosporine Clinical Impact: Increased activity of both cyclosporine and corticosteroids may occur when the two are used concurrently. Convulsions have been reported with concurrent use. Intervention: Monitor patients receiving ALKINDI SPRINKLE and concomitant cyclosporine. Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) Clinical Impact: Concomitant use of NSAIDs and corticosteroids increases the risk of gastrointestinal adverse reactions. Aspirin should be used cautiously in conjunction with corticosteroids in hypoprothrombinemia. The clearance of salicylates may be increased with concurrent use of corticosteroids; this could lead to decreased salicylate serum levels or increase the risk of salicylate toxicity when corticosteroid is withdrawn. Intervention: Monitor patients receiving ALKINDI SPRINKLE and concomitant NSAIDs. CYP3A4 Inhibitors : concomitant administration may require a decrease in the ALKINDI SPRINKLE dose. ( 7 ) CYP3A4 Inducers : concomitant administration may require an increase in the ALKINDI SPRINKLE dose. ( 7 ) Estrogen and Estrogen Containing Products : concomitant administration may require an increase in the ALKINDI SPRINKLE dose. ( 7 ) Antidiabetic agents: excessive doses may increase blood glucose concentrations. Dose adjustment of antidiabetic agents may be required. ( 7 ) NSAIDs: concomitant administration increases risk of gastrointestinal adverse reactions. ( 7 ) See 17 for PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION and FDA-approved patient labeling (Medication Guide). Revised 04/2026
Adverse reactions
ADVERSE REACTIONS The following serious adverse reactions are described here and elsewhere in the label: Adrenal Crisis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] Systemic Adverse Reactions Due to Inactive Ingredients [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] Immunosuppression and Increased Risk of Infection with Use of a Dosage Greater Than Replacement [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] Growth Retardation [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] Cushing's Syndrome Due to Use of Excessive Doses of Corticosteroids [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] Decrease in Bone Mineral Density [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ] Psychiatric Adverse Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ] Ophthalmic Adverse Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8) ] Gastrointestinal Adverse Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9) ] Risk of Kaposi's Sarcoma with Use of Dosage Greater than Replacement [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10) ] Vaccinations [see Warnings and Precautions (5.11) ] Common adverse reactions for corticosteroids include fluid retention, alteration in glucose tolerance, elevation in blood pressure, behavioral and mood changes, increased appetite, and weight gain. ( 6 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Eton Pharmaceuticals, Inc. at 1-855-224-0233 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch . 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical studies are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. The safety of oral hydrocortisone was evaluated in an uncontrolled, open-label, single-arm clinical study in 18 pediatric patients with adrenocortical insufficiency treated with oral hydrocortisone granules. Adrenocortical insufficiency was due to congenital adrenal hyperplasia in 17 patients and to hypopituitarism in one patient. All patients received at least one dose of hydrocortisone granules. The age ranged from 36 days to 5.7 years at start of treatment; 8 patients were female and 10 were male; 100% were White. Adverse reactions that were reported in two or more patients (≥ 11%) are shown in Table 1. Table 1: Adverse Reactions Occurring in ≥11% of Pediatric Patients with Adrenocortical Insufficiency Treated with Hydrocortisone Granules for up to 29 Months Adverse Reactions N=18 n (%) Pyrexia 10 (56) Gastroenteritis 9 (50) Viral upper respiratory tract infection 8 (44) Vomiting 7 (39) Viral infection 6 (33) Conjunctivitis 5 (28) Otitis media viral 3 (17) Tonsillitis 3 (17) Body temperature increased 2 (11) Bronchitis 2 (11) Dental caries 2 (11) Diarrhea 2 (11) Genitourinary operation 2 (11) Pharyngitis 2 (11) Respiratory tract infection 2 (11) Rhinitis 2 (11) 6.2 Postmarketing Experience The following adverse reactions seen in pediatric and adult patients associated with the use of corticosteroids were identified in the literature and from postmarketing reports. Because some of these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure. Common adverse reactions for corticosteroids include fluid retention, alteration in glucose tolerance, elevation in blood pressure, behavioral and mood changes, increased appetite and weight gain. Allergic Reactions: Anaphylaxis, angioedema Cardiovascular: Bradycardia, cardiac arrest, cardiac arrhythmias, cardiac enlargement, circulatory collapse, congestive heart failure, fat embolism, hypertension, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in premature infants, myocardial rupture following recent myocardial infarction, pulmonary edema, syncope, tachycardia, thromboembolism, thrombophlebitis, vasculitis Dermatologic: Acne, allergic dermatitis, cutaneous and subcutaneous atrophy, dry scalp, edema, facial erythema, hyper or hypo-pigmentation, impaired wound healing, increased sweating, petechiae and ecchymoses, rash, sterile abscess, striae, suppressed reactions to skin tests, thin fragile skin, thinning scalp hair, urticaria Endocrine: Abnormal fat deposits, decreased carbohydrate tolerance, development of Cushingoid state, hirsutism, manifestations of latent diabetes mellitus and increased requirements for insulin or oral hypoglycemic agents in diabetics, menstrual irregularities, moon faces, secondary adrenocortical and pituitary unresponsiveness (particularly in times of stress, as in trauma, surgery or illness), suppression of growth in pediatric patients Fluid and Electrolyte Disturbances: Fluid retention, potassium loss, hypertension, hypokalemic alkalosis, sodium retention Gastrointestinal: Abdominal distention, elevation in serum liver enzymes levels (usually reversible upon discontinuation), hepatomegaly, hiccups, malaise, nausea, pancreatitis, peptic ulcer with possible perforation and hemorrhage, ulcerative esophagitis General: Increased appetite and weight gain Metabolic: Negative nitrogen balance due to protein catabolism Musculoskeletal: Osteonecrosis of femoral and humeral heads, Charcot-like arthropathy, loss of muscle mass, muscle weakness, osteoporosis, pathologic fracture of long bones, steroid myopathy, tendon rupture, vertebral compression fractures Neurological: Arachnoiditis, convulsions, depression, emotional instability, euphoria, headache, increased intracranial pressure with papilledema (pseudo-tumor cerebri) usually following discontinuation of treatment, insomnia, meningitis, mood swings, neuritis, neuropathy, paraparesis/paraplegia, paresthesia, personality changes, sensory disturbances, vertigo Ophthalmic: Exophthalmos, glaucoma, increased intraocular pressure, posterior subcapsular cataracts, and central serous chorioretinopathy Reproductive: Alteration in motility and number of spermatozoa
Mechanism of action
CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY: Mechanism of Action: Product releases lidocaine to stabilize the neuronal membrane by inhibiting the ionic fluxes required for initiation and conduction of impulses, thereby effecting local anesthetic action. Hydrocortisone acetate provides relief of inflammatory and pruritic manifestations of corticosteroid responsive dermatoses. Lidocaine is chemically designated as acetamide, 2-(diethylamino)-N-(2,6-dimethylphenyl), and has the following structure: Hydrocortisone acetate has a chemical name pregn-4-ene-3, 20-dione, 21-(acetyloxy)- 11,17- dihydroxy-(11ß)-. It has the following structural formula: Pharmacokinetics: Lidocaine may be absorbed following topical administration to mucous membranes, its rate and extent of absorption depending upon the specific site of application, duration of exposure, concentration, and total dosage. In general, the rate of absorption of local anesthetic agents following topical application occurs most rapidly after intratracheal administration. Lidocaine is also well-absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, but little intact drug appears in the circulation because of biotransformation in the liver. Lidocaine is metabolized rapidly by the liver, and metabolites and unchanged drug are excreted by the kidneys. Biotransformation includes oxidative N-dealkylation, ring hydroxylation, cleavage of the amide linkage, and conjugation. N-dealkylation, a major pathway of biotransformation, yields the metabolites monoethylglycinexylidide and glycinexylidide. The pharmacological/toxicological actions of these metabolites are, similar to but less potent than, those of lidocaine. Approximately 90% of lidocaine administered is excreted in the form of various metabolites, and less than 10% is excreted unchanged. The primary metabolite in urine is a conjugate of 4-hydroxy-2, 6-dimethylaniline. The plasma binding of lidocaine is dependent on drug concentration, and the fraction bound decreases with increasing concentration. At concentrations of 1 to 4 g of free base per mL, 60 to 80 percent of lidocaine is protein bound. Binding is also dependent on the plasma concentration of the alpha-1-acid glycoprotein. Lidocaine crosses the blood-brain and placental barriers, presumably by passive diffusion. Studies of lidocaine metabolism following intravenous bolus injections have shown that the elimination half-life of this agent is typically 1.5 to 2 hours. Because of the rapid rate at which lidocaine is metabolized, any condition that affects liver function may alter lidocaine kinetics. The half-life may be prolonged two-fold or more in patients with liver dysfunction. Renal dysfunction does not affect lidocaine kinetics but may increase the accumulation of metabolites. Factors such as acidosis and the use of CNS stimulants and depressants affect the CNS levels of lidocaine required to produce overt systemic effects. Objective adverse manifestations become increasingly apparent with increasing venous plasma levels above 6 g free base per mL. In the rhesus monkey arterial blood levels of 18-21 g/mL have been shown to be threshold for convulsive activity. The extent of percutaneous absorption of topical corticosteroids is determined by many factors including the vehicle, the integrity of the epidermal barrier, and the use of occlusive dressings. Topical corticosteroids can be absorbed from normal intact skin. Inflammation and/or other disease processes in the skin increase percutaneous absorption. Occlusive dressings substantially increase the percutaneous absorption of topical corticosteroids. Thus, occlusive dressings may be a valuable therapeutic adjunct for treatment of resistant dermatoses. Once absorbed through the skin, topical corticosteroids are handled through pharmacokinetic pathways similar to systemically administered corticosteroids. Corticosteroids are bound to plasma protein in varying degrees. Corticosteroids are metabolized primarily in the liver and are then excreted by the kidneys. Some of the topical corticosteroids and their metabolites are also excreted into the bile. structure1 structure2
Available forms (80)
hydrocortisone 0.001 MG/MG Topical Ointmenthydrocortisone 0.005 MG/MG Topical Ointmenthydrocortisone 0.01 MG/MG Rectal Ointmenthydrocortisone 0.01 MG/MG Topical Gelhydrocortisone 0.01 MG/MG Topical Ointmenthydrocortisone 0.025 MG/MG Topical Ointmenthydrocortisone 0.02 MG/MG Topical Gelhydrocortisone 0.5 MG Oral Granuleshydrocortisone 1000 MG Injectionhydrocortisone 100 MG Injectionhydrocortisone 100 MG/ML Injectable Solutionhydrocortisone 10 MG/ML Medicated Shampoohydrocortisone 10 MG/ML Ophthalmic Solutionhydrocortisone 10 MG/ML Otic Solutionhydrocortisone 10 MG/ML Rectal Creamhydrocortisone 10 MG/ML Topical Creamhydrocortisone 10 MG/ML Topical Foamhydrocortisone 10 MG/ML Topical Lotionhydrocortisone 10 MG/ML Topical Solutionhydrocortisone 10 MG/ML Topical Sprayhydrocortisone 10 MG/ML Vaginal Creamhydrocortisone 10 MG Oral Tablethydrocortisone 1.67 MG/ML Enemahydrocortisone 1 MG/MG Topical Powderhydrocortisone 1 MG/ML Oral Solutionhydrocortisone 1 MG/ML Topical Creamhydrocortisone 1 MG Oral Granuleshydrocortisone 20 MG/ML Topical Creamhydrocortisone 20 MG/ML Topical Lotionhydrocortisone 20 MG Oral Tablethydrocortisone 250 MG Injectionhydrocortisone 25 MG/ML Injectable Suspensionhydrocortisone 25 MG/ML Rectal Creamhydrocortisone 25 MG/ML Topical Creamhydrocortisone 25 MG/ML Topical Lotionhydrocortisone 25 MG/ML Topical Solutionhydrocortisone 2.5 MG Oral Lozengehydrocortisone 2 MG/ML Oral Suspensionhydrocortisone 2 MG Oral Granuleshydrocortisone 500 MG Injectionhydrocortisone 5 MG/ML Topical Creamhydrocortisone 5 MG/ML Topical Lotionhydrocortisone 5 MG/ML Topical Sprayhydrocortisone 5 MG Oral Granuleshydrocortisone 5 MG Oral Tablethydrocortisone acetate 0.005 MG/MG Ophthalmic Ointmenthydrocortisone acetate 0.01 MG/MG Ophthalmic Ointmenthydrocortisone acetate 0.01 MG/MG Topical Ointmenthydrocortisone acetate 0.025 MG/MG Ophthalmic Ointmenthydrocortisone acetate 100 MG/ML Rectal Foamhydrocortisone acetate 10 MG/ML Topical Creamhydrocortisone acetate 10 MG/ML Vaginal Creamhydrocortisone acetate 20 MG/ML Topical Creamhydrocortisone acetate 25 MG/ML Topical Creamhydrocortisone acetate 25 MG Rectal Suppositoryhydrocortisone acetate 30 MG Rectal Suppositoryhydrocortisone acetate 5 MG/ML Topical Creamhydrocortisone acetate 5 MG/ML Topical Lotionhydrocortisone sodium phosphate 50 MG/ML Injectable Solutionhydrocortisone valerate 0.002 MG/MG Topical Ointmenthydrocortisone valerate 2 MG/ML Topical Creamhydrocortisone 0.01 MG/MG Rectal Ointment [Hemorrodil Plus]brandhydrocortisone 0.01 MG/MG Topical Gel [Alocane Anti-Itch]brandhydrocortisone 0.01 MG/MG Topical Gel [Corticool]brandhydrocortisone 0.01 MG/MG Topical Gel [Cortizone]brandhydrocortisone 0.01 MG/MG Topical Gel [Instacort]brandhydrocortisone 0.01 MG/MG Topical Ointment [Aquaphor Itch Relief]brandhydrocortisone 0.01 MG/MG Topical Ointment [Cortaid]brandhydrocortisone 0.01 MG/MG Topical Ointment [Cortizone]brandhydrocortisone 0.5 MG Oral Granules [Alkindi]brandhydrocortisone 1000 MG Injection [Solu-Cortef]brandhydrocortisone 100 MG Injection [Solu-Cortef]brandhydrocortisone 10 MG/ML Rectal Cream [Recort Plus]brandhydrocortisone 10 MG/ML Topical Cream [Ala-Cort]brandhydrocortisone 10 MG/ML Topical Cream [Caldecort]brandhydrocortisone 10 MG/ML Topical Cream [Cortaid]brandhydrocortisone 10 MG/ML Topical Cream [Cortizone]brandhydrocortisone 10 MG/ML Topical Cream [Dermacort]brandhydrocortisone 10 MG/ML Topical Cream [Dermtex HC]brandhydrocortisone 10 MG/ML Topical Cream [Gynecort]brand
NDC examples
0037-683050090-63310904-734063629-25310574-70900574-709369367-24369367-26071205-97682568-015082568-016070752-169
Treats these conditions
Source: openFDA + RxNorm · 2026
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