About hydrocortisone
Systemic corticosteroid
Used for
- Severe allergic reactions and asthma attacks
- Adrenal crisis or inadequate adrenal hormone production
- Severe inflammation and certain autoimmune conditions
Usual adult dose
Varies by condition; emergency doses commonly start at 100 mg intravenously or intramuscularly, followed by further doses.
Usual dose in children
Varies by condition and weight; emergency adrenal-crisis doses are commonly 25–100 mg intravenously or intramuscularly.
Common side effects
- Raised blood sugar
- Fluid retention and increased blood pressure
- Mood changes or difficulty sleeping
- Increased infection risk
Important warnings
- For injection by healthcare professionals; dosing depends on the condition.
- Can mask or worsen infections.
- Repeated or prolonged treatment may suppress natural adrenal hormone production.
- May affect blood sugar, blood pressure, and fluid balance.
Pregnancy
May be used when clinically needed; the lowest effective dose and duration are generally preferred.
Breastfeeding
Generally compatible when medically necessary; high doses may temporarily reduce milk production.
Interactions
- Warfarin and other anticoagulants
- Diabetes medicines
- Some vaccines, especially live vaccines
- Rifampicin, phenytoin, or other medicines affecting steroid breakdown
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.