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Hydrocortisone (oral)
|
About hydrocortisone (oral)
| Type of medicine | Corticosteroid |
| Used for | Replacement therapy in adrenocortical insufficiency Before an operation, and during injury or illness in patients with known adrenal insufficiency |
| Also called | Hydrocortone |
| Available as | Tablets |
Hydrocortisone (oral) is used as replacement therapy in people whose adrenal glands are not producing enough natural corticosteroids (adrenal insufficiency). Low blood levels of corticosteroids must be treated with replacement therapy to allow the body to function normally.
Before taking hydrocortisone (oral)
Before taking hydrocortisone (oral) 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 infections including chicken pox, shingles or measles, or have been in contact with anyone who has them.
- If you suffer from high blood pressure or heart problems.
- If you suffer from liver or kidney problems.
- If you suffer from diabetes mellitus or glaucoma, or have a family history of these conditions.
- If you suffer from osteoporosis, heart failure or hypothyroidism.
- If you suffer from myasthenia gravis (muscle weakening disease).
- If you suffer from peptic ulcer or any stomach disorder or have a history of these conditions.
How to take hydrocortisone (oral)
- Do not stop taking hydrocortisone without speaking to your doctor first
- Each dose of hydrocortisone should be taken with or just after food. If taking as a single dose take with or just after breakfast.
- Try to take this medicine at the same time each day to avoid missing any doses
Getting the most from your treatment
- If you come into contact with anyone who has measles, shingles or chicken pox 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 have been given a steroid treatment card, carry it with you at all times.
Can hydrocortisone (oral) 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.
| Common side-effects - these affect less than 1 in 10 people who take this medicine | What can I do if I experience this |
| Indigestion, abdominal discomfort, acne, increased sweating, headache | Ask your pharmacist for advice |
| Muscle weakness/pain, thin skin, bruising, changes in menstruation | Contact your doctor |
How to store hydrocortisone (oral)
- 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
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| © EMIS 2006 | DocID: 619 |
DocRef: dils2710 |
Last Updated: 30 Oct 2006 |
Date of Next Review: 29 Oct 2008 |
Version: 22 |
Disclaimer: Patient UK has no control of the content of the above links. Inclusion does not imply endorsement by Patient UK.
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