HYDROCORTISONE

The topical corticosteroids constitute a class of primarily synthetic steroids used as anti-inflammatory and anti-pruritic agents. Hydrocortisone cream USP, 2.5% and hydrocortisone ointment USP, 2.5% contain hydrocortisone, USP. Hydrocortisone, USP is a white to practically white crystalline powder. Chemically, hydrocortisone is pregn-4-ene-3,20-dione, 11,17, 21-trihydroxy-, (11β)-. The structural formula of hydrocortisone is: Each gram of the 2.5% cream contains 25 mg of hydrocortisone, USP in a base of glyceryl monostearate, polyoxyl 40 stearate, glycerin, paraffin, stearyl alcohol, isopropyl palmitate, sorbitan monostearate, benzyl alcohol, potassium sorbate, lactic acid and purified water. Each gram of the 2.5% ointment contains 25 mg of hydrocortisone, USP in a base of white petrolatum and mineral oil.

: Topical corticosteroids are indicated for the relief of the inflammatory and pruritic manifestations of corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses.

: Apply to the affected area as a thin film 2 to 4 times daily depending on the severity of the condition. Occlusive dressings may be used for the management of psoriasis or recalcitrant conditions. If an infection develops, the use of occlusive dressings should be discontinued and appropriate antimicrobial therapy instituted.

: Topical corticosteroids are contraindicated in those patients with a history of hypersensitivity to any of the components of the preparation.

The following local adverse reactions are reported infrequently with topical corticosteroids, but may occur more frequently with the use of occlusive dressings. These reactions are listed in an approximate decreasing order of occurrence: burning, itching, irritation, dryness, folliculitis, hypertrichosis, acneiform eruptions, hypopigmentation, perioral dermatitis, allergic contact dermatitis, maceration of the skin, secondary infection, skin atrophy, striae and miliaria.