Hydrocortisone
Hydrocortisone is a steroid medicine. When a person's immune system is overreacting, hydrocortisone can calm it.[1] This can relieve pain, allergic reactions, itching, and inflammation.[2]
Hydrocortisone is a man-made version of cortisol, an important stress hormone made within the body. Some people's bodies do not make enough cortisol naturally. Hydrocortisone is a treatment for these people.[3]
Uses
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Skin problems
changeHydrocortisone cream, lotions, and ointments can treat many skin conditions, including:[4]
Painful joints
changeHydrocortisone injections can treat joints that are swollen and painful. They are used for conditions like arthritis, bursitis, and tennis elbow.[5] They can relieve pain for months, or even up to a year.[5]
Other problems
changeHydrocortisone cream, spray, ointments, and suppositories (which are inserted into the rectum) can treat hemorrhoids.[1]
The Mayo Clinic describes the many other uses of hydrocortisone:[2]
Hydrocortisone provides relief for inflamed areas of the body. It [treats] inflammation (swelling), severe allergies, adrenal problems, arthritis, blood or bone marrow problems, eye or vision problems, lung or breathing problems ([like] asthma), lupus, skin conditions, and ulcerative colitis.
References
change- ↑ 1.0 1.1 "Hydrocortisone: A steroid used to treat many health conditions". National Health Service of the United Kingdom. March 26, 2019. Retrieved November 14, 2024.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 "Hydrocortisone (oral route)". Mayo Clinic. February 1, 2024. Retrieved November 14, 2024.
- ↑ Morris, Rachel; Sharma, Alok (June 2019). "Mechanism of action of inotropes in neonates". Paediatrics and Child Health. 29 (6): 249–266 – via Elsevier Science Direct.
- ↑ "Hydrocortisone for skin: Steroid for skin conditions". National Health Service of the United Kingdom. 2024-01-04. Retrieved 2024-11-14.
- ↑ 5.0 5.1 "About hydrocortisone injections". National Health Service of the United Kingdom. 2024-02-05. Retrieved 2024-11-14.