What is hydrocortisone?
Hydrocortisone is a medicine and an active ingredient with mainly anti-inflammatory properties, although it is also ideal for treating allergies. It is considered a natural steroidof glucocorticoid, corticosteroid and mineralocorticoid type, hormonesthat have various functions in the complex human body.
Hydrocortisone comes as a tablet or tablet for oral administration, as well as creams (ointments) and solution for injectionwith 20 mg, up to 100 mgor500 mg of the compound. Doses depend on the prescription, although for example, they start with 100 mg of cream for 2 or 4 hours a day.
Note: A study highlights that: “Corticosteroids are hormonesproducedby our body that participate in many functions. They are generally used for their anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic and immunosuppressive properties.” (1)
What is hydrocortisone for?
It is important to fully know what hydrocortisone is for, since its effects are multiple, but it is prescribedspecifically for certain types of conditions or disorders. Among which we get the following:
1. Allergic, anaphylactic reactions and septic shock
Hydrocortisone is prescribed for allergic reactions, such as severe rhinitis or asthma, also for anaphylaxis , which is identified by sudden tingling or restlessness.
To highlight: The drug seeks to relieve irritation or prevent these attacks, by inhibiting the production of proteins that participate in inflammation.
Another case for which hydrocortisone is prescribed is shock or septic shock, which occurs when there is contact with a highly infectious bacterium that can lower blood pressure , in the case of the reaction of the immune system where the common symptom is inflammation or rashes .
2. Inflammations and rheumatic pains
Hydrocortisone is recommended to reduce the symptoms of Joint Inflammation Disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, where there is damage to the connective tissues of the joints, especially in the hands or feet.
You should know: Hydrocortisone cream may also be prescribed for osteoarthritis , a complex disorder where the protective cartilage attached to the bones wears down to cause severe pain, stiffness, and tenderness .
3. Adrenal insufficiency
This disorder strongly affects the kidneys, where the production of essential hormones such as cortisol or aldosterone decreases , related to metabolism and also to the balance of blood pressure.
4. Hypoglycemia and hypotension
And as a result of the above, a decrease in the main symptom of hypotension can be achieved, which is the case where blood pressure is very low , when there is no presence of the appropriate minerals that influence proper blood circulation.
Noteworthy: Hydrocortisone is also recommended to relieve symptoms of insulin shock, where blood sugar (also called glucose) is very low, causing reactions such as dizziness, fatigue, or seizures.
Hydrocortisone Side Effects
The effects of this complex drug are few and certainly do not appear frequently, however it is recommended to be very aware of these common reactions caused by hydrocortisone:
Contraindications of hydrocortisone
Hydrocortisone is contraindicated for a certain number of patients, due to unwanted interactions that can affect a person’s life. It is not recommended in cases such as:
- Hypersensitivity to the active metabolite.
- Osteoporosis.
- Hypertension.
- Acute psychosis.
Key Findings
- Hydrocortisone is a complex anti-inflammatory and anti-allergy drug .
- It is commonly used for arthritis, rhinitis, or low blood pressure.
- Hydrocortisone can cause drowsiness, headache, and acne as side effects.
- The use of hydrocortisone is not recommended in hypersensitive, hypertensive and severe bone disease patients.
University Professional in the area of Human Resources, Postgraduate in Occupational Health and Hygiene of the Work Environment, 14 years of experience in the area of health. Interested in topics of Psychology, Occupational Health, and General Medicine.