Cortef

Common Name: hydrocortisone (by mouth)

How does Cortef work?

Hydrocortisone belongs to the family of medications known as corticosteroids. It is used to treat several different conditions. It works by reducing swelling, inflammation, and irritation. Hydrocortisone is more commonly used to treat allergic reactions, some skin conditions, severe asthma, and arthritis. It can also be used to treat steroid deficiency in the body, certain blood disorders, certain types of cancer, and ulcerative colitis. Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than the ones listed in these drug information articles. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.

How should I use Cortef?

The dose varies greatly according to condition being treated and individual circumstances of each person. This medication should be taken with food to reduce the chance of an upset stomach It is important to use this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.

What form(s) does Cortef come in?

Cortef® is available in strengths of 10 mg and 20 mg. 10 mg: Each white, round, scored, tablet, engraved "Cortef 10", contains hydrocortisone 10 mg. 20 mg: Each white, round, scored, tablet, engraved "Cortef 20", contains hydrocortisone 20 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: calcium stearate, cornstarch, lactose, mineral oil, sorbic acid, and sucrose. Sodium: <1 mmol. This medication does not contain gluten or tartrazine.

What should I NOT take with Cortef?

This medication should not be used by people who: have an internal fungal infection have tuberculosis have herpes simplex infection of the eye are having an acute psychotic episode are allergic to hydrocortisone or any of the ingredients of the product

Are there any other precautions or warnings for Cortef?

Blood pressure: Average and large doses of hydrocortisone can cause increases in blood pressure. You should have your blood pressure monitored while taking this medication. Your doctor may suggest diet changes or other measures to keep your blood pressure under control. Diabetes: This medication may worsen blood sugar control for people with diabetes. People who have diabetes may need to monitor their blood sugar more closely while taking this medication. Eyes: Long-term use of corticosteroids may increase the risk of cataracts, glaucoma, or eye infections. Infection: Corticosteroids may mask some signs of infection, and new infections may appear during their use. Corticosteroids may worsen internal fungal infections and therefore should not be used in the presence of such infections. Medical records: Let all health professionals involved in your care know that you have been taking a corticosteroid. Osteoporosis: Long-term use of hydrocortisone increases the risk of osteoporosis (brittle bones). Stopping the medication: When stopping this medication after having used it for a long time, reduce the dose slowly as prescribed by your doctor. Stopping the medication too quickly could lead to withdrawal symptoms including fever, muscle and joint pain, and a general feeling of being unwell. Stress: People taking corticosteroids such as hydrocortisone who are subjected to any unusual stress should increase the dosage before, during, and after the stressful situation as prescribed by their doctor. Pregnancy: This medication has not been adequately studied for use by pregnant women. It should not be used during pregnancy unless, in the judgment of the doctor, the benefits outweigh the risks. Breast-feeding: This medication appears in breast milk and could slow growth, interfere with the baby's own steroid production, or cause other unwanted effects for the breast-feeding infant. Women taking this medication should not breast-feed. Children: The growth and development of infants and children having long-term treatment with hydrocortisone should be carefully followed.