3. Hydrocortisone (buccal tablets)

Hydrocortisone (buccal tablets)

  • Hydrocortisone buccal tablets are to be put directly onto your mouth ulcer and allowed to dissolve slowly.
  • Use one tablet four times each day unless you have been told otherwise.
Type of medicine Corticosteroid
Used for Mouth ulcers
Previously called Corlan® pellets
Available as Muco-adhesive buccal tablets (previously known as lozenges)

Hydrocortisone buccal tablets dissolve directly on the mouth ulcer and work by reducing the soreness, swelling and inflammation of the ulcer.

Before using hydrocortisone buccal tablets make sure your doctor, pharmacist or dentist knows:

  • If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
  • If you have any fungal, bacterial or viral infections in your mouth.
  • If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or to any other medicine.
  • If you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines.
  • Before you begin this treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
  • Always follow your doctor's or dentist's instructions.
  • Put one buccal tablet in your mouth, near or on the ulcer, and let it dissolve slowly. Do not suck the tablet.
  • Unless you have been told otherwise, use hydrocortisone buccal tablets four times a day until the ulcer has healed.
  • If your symptoms do not improve within five days (or if they get worse), ask your pharmacist, doctor or dentist for further advice.
  • Do not use these buccal tablets if there is an infection in your mouth. Signs of an infection are sores which do not heal, 'furry tongue', inflammation, and bleeding gums.
  • Do not take more than your prescribed dose.
  • If you forget to take a dose, don't worry, just take the next dose when it is due. Do not take two doses together to make up for a missed dose.
  • This medicine is for you. Never give it to others even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.

Along with their useful effects, all medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them.

Hydrocortisone buccal tablets can occasionally cause oral thrush, which causes a sore mouth, often with white patches on the tongue and insides of the cheeks. If this becomes troublesome, ask your doctor, dentist or pharmacist for further advice.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to hydrocortisone buccal tablets, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

  • Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
  • Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

  • If you buy any medicines check with a pharmacist that they are safe to use with your other medicines.
  • Never use more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has used too much of this medicine go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Take the container with you, even if it is empty.
  • If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are using.
  • Never keep out-of-date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
  • If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.
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Further reading & references

  • British National Formulary; 59th Edition (March 2010) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London.
Original Author: Helen Allen Current Version:
Last Checked: 14/12/2010 Document ID: 3361  Version: 24 © EMIS

Disclaimer: This article is for information only and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of medical conditions. EMIS has used all reasonable care in compiling the information but make no warranty as to its accuracy. Consult a doctor or other health care professional for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. For details see our conditions.

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