What is the dose for Cortef?

Cortef comes in 2 doses 10 MG, and 20 MG tablets

How do I use this medication? Will it work for me?

 Hydrocortisone (by mouth) belongs to a family called Corticosteroids.  Cortef is used by Healthcare professionals to treat a variety of different conditions.  It brings down swelling, irritation, and redness. Cortef is commonly used to treat verity of topical skin allergic reactions. It is also used to treat certain types of cancers, deficiency of steroids in the body, and blood disorders.

How should this medication be used?

 A daily dose varies depending on each individual circumstance and is prescribed according to the patient’s condition. This medication should be taken with food to reduce the chance of falling ill with an upset stomach. People who suffer from Herpes simplex infection of the eye, internal fungal infection, tuberculosis, or are allergic to the ingredients in hydrocortisone products should not take these pills.  

The most Common side effects include:

Upset stomach and stomach irritation, agitation, increase in appetite, noticeable change of skin colour, whirling sensation, crimson of the face or cheeks, elevated sweating, hiccups, and a spinning sensation.

Less common side effects include:

Cloudy vision , persistent urination, increased thirst, confusion, and depression, anxiety, apprehension restlessness, skin rash and hives.

Check with your doctor if you notice any symptom that worries you while you are taking this medication. Reactions alternate depending on each individual. Side effects may go away as the body becomes used to the medication or if they continue to become bothersome contact your local Doctor immediately.

What are the other precautions or warnings for Cortef?

Pregnancy: Cortef is  not recommended for pregnant woman to use.

Children:  Hydrocortisone should be carefully followed when used for long-term treatment of infants and children.

Breast-feeding: This medication causes life long side effects in children. Breast milk and could stunt growth, interfere with the baby's own steroid production, or cause other undesired effects for the infant.

Blood pressure: Blood pressure increased when patients use any dose of hydrocortisone. Monitor blood pressure regularly while taking this medication.

Diabetes: Blood sugar levels need to be watched carefully by diabetic’s who use Cortef on a daily basis.

Eyes: Long-term damage to the eyes including the risk of cataracts, glaucoma, or eye infections.

Infection: The appearance of some signs of another infection can be masked while using this product. Corticosteroids may worsen internal fungal infections and therefore should not be used in the presence of such infections.

Medical records: Advise your health professional 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).

Stress: Patients using hydrocortisone who suffer from any unusual stress should increase the dosage before, during, and after the stressful situation.