Cortef (Hydrocortisone)

Indications

Cortef is a steroid medication commonly used to treat allergic disorders, skin conditions, arthritis, lupus, lung disorders, ulcerative colitis, and certain blood cell disorders such as anemia (low red blood cells) or thrombocytopenia (low platelets).

Cortef contains an active ingredient called hydrocortisone. Hydrocortisone belongs to the class of drugs known as glucocorticoids. It works by decreasing your body's immune response, making it useful in treating allergic reactions and conditions that involve an overactive immune system.

Uses and Dosage

Cortef is available in tablet form and should be taken by mouth with food or milk to prevent stomach upset, as directed by your doctor. The tablet should be taken with a full glass of water (8 ounces/240 milliliters) unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

Follow the dosing schedule carefully, as the dosage and length of treatment depend on your medical condition and response to treatment. Your doctor may direct you to take hydrocortisone 1 to 4 times a day or take a single dose every other day. To help remember when to take your medication, you may find it helpful to mark your calendar with reminders or use a pill box.

The recommended dosage of Cortef (hydrocortisone) varies depending on the specific medical condition being treated. The initial dosage can range from 20mg to 240mg of hydrocortisone. However, the exact dosage should be determined by a healthcare provider based on the patient's medical history and individual response to treatment.

Side effect

Common Side Effects of Cortef (Hydrocortisone):

• Acne
• Bruising
• Changes in your mood
• Dizziness
• Headache
• High blood pressure
• High blood sugar
• Increased appetite
• Increased sweating
• Insomnia (trouble sleeping)
• Muscle weakness
• Skin discoloration
• Stomach pain
• Thinning skin
• Trouble sleeping
• Weight gain

Serious Side Effects of Cortef (Hydrocortisone):

• Blurred vision
• Burning when you urinate
• Eye pain
• Fever
• Increased body hair
• Loss of muscle mass
• Menstrual changes
• Muscle weakness
• New or unusual pain in your joints, bones, or muscles
• Pain behind your eyes
• Rapid weight gain (especially in your face and midsection)
• Ringing in your ears
• Seeing halos around lights
• Seizure
• Severe headaches
• Shortness of breath
• Skin discoloration
• Slow wound healing
• Swelling
• Thinning skin
• Tunnel vision
• Unusual changes in mood or behavior

Form and Strength

Cortef (Hydrocortisone) is available in the following forms and strength:

Cortef: Scored Tablet

• 10 mg
• 20 mg

Hydrocortisone: Tablet

• 5 mg

Caution

• Cortef should be used with caution in people with a history of psychiatric conditions, high blood pressure, diabetes, or osteoporosis.
• Cortef should not be used by people who have a fungal infection or a known hypersensitivity to any of its ingredients.
• Cortef should be used with caution in people with a history of tuberculosis, as it can reactivate the infection.
• Cortef can interact with other medications, tell your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking before starting to take Cortef.
• Cortef can weaken the immune system, making it easier for infections to occur, practice good hygiene, avoid contact with sick people, and notify your doctor if you experience any symptoms of infection.
• Cortef should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefits justify the potential risk to the fetus, and it is not recommended for use while breastfeeding.
• Cortef can cause changes in mood or behavior, notify your doctor if you experience any new or unusual symptoms while taking Cortef.
• Cortef can increase blood sugar levels, so people with diabetes should monitor their blood sugar levels more closely while taking Cortef.
• Cortef can cause fluid and electrolyte imbalances in the body, so it is important to monitor your salt intake and notify your doctor if you experience symptoms such as swelling or changes in urination.
• Cortef can cause an increased risk of stomach ulcers and digestive problems, especially when taken with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
• Cortef can cause an increased risk of osteoporosis and bone fractures, especially with long-term use.
• Cortef can cause cataracts and glaucoma in some people, especially with long-term use.
• Cortef should be used with caution in people with a history of liver or kidney disease, as it can affect liver and kidney function.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can Cortef be taken during pregnancy?

Cortef should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefits justify the potential risk to the fetus.

Can Cortef be taken with other medications?

Cortef can interact with other medications, tell your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking before starting to take Cortef.

Is Cortef safe for children?

Cortef can be prescribed to children, but the dosage and frequency should be determined by a healthcare provider according to the child's specific needs.

Can Cortef be used long-term?

It depends on the individual's specific medical needs and the condition being treated. Cortef should be used exactly as prescribed by a healthcare provider and patients should not stop taking it without consulting with their doctor.

Resources

• https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2016/008697s032_33lbl.pdf
• https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=9ce19944-dd88-4a7b-84ca-b07f4ec23bad
• https://www.drugs.com/mtm/cortef.html
• https://www.rxlist.com/cortef-drug.htm
• https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-6730/cortef-oral/details
• https://www.goodrx.com/cortef/what-is