Hydrocortisone (oral)

About hydrocortisone

Hydrocortisone tablets are used as replacement therapy in people whose adrenal glands are not producing enough natural corticosteroids (a condition known as adrenal insufficiency). Low blood levels of corticosteroids must be treated with replacement therapy to allow the body to function normally.

Before taking hydrocortisone

Before taking hydrocortisone make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you have tuberculosis (TB) or have a family history of this condition.
• If you are suffering from any kind of infection including chickenpox, shingles or measles, or have been in contact with anyone who has them.
• If you suffer from high blood pressure, heart, or blood clot problems.
• If you suffer from liver or kidney problems.
• If you or any of your close family suffer from diabetes mellitus or glaucoma.
• If you suffer from osteoporosis or hypothyroidism.
• If you suffer from myasthenia gravis (muscle weakening disease).
• If you suffer from epilepsy.
• If you have ever suffered from a stomach ulcer or any bowel disorder.
• If you or a close family member has ever suffered from a mental health disorder or had a unusual reaction to a corticosteroid (steroid psychosis).
• If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.

How to take hydrocortisone

• Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
• Take your medication exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Do not stop taking hydrocortisone without speaking to your doctor first
• Each dose of hydrocortisone should be taken with or just after food. If you take your tablets as a single dose each day, then take them with or just after your breakfast.
• Try to take this medicine at the same time each day to avoid missing any doses.
• If you forget to take a dose, take one as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for your next dose, in which case skip the missed dose and take the next dose when it is due. Do not take two doses together to make up.

Getting the most from your treatment

• If you become ill or come into contact with anyone who has measles, shingles or chickenpox (or anyone who suspects they might have them) up to 3 months after stopping treatment of hydrocortisone, you must see your doctor within 3-10 days of contact (the sooner the better).
• If you are due to have any treatment like an operation or dental treatment, it is important that you tell the person carrying out the treatment that you are taking hydrocortisone.
• If you have been given a steroid treatment card, carry it with you at all times.
• Some vaccines are not suitable for use with hydrocortisone. If you need any immunisation, make sure you mention to your doctor that you are taking hydrocortisone.

Can hydrocortisone cause problems

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

How to store hydrocortisone

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

Important information about all medicines