Indications
Westcort Ointment is a topical steroid used to treat inflammation of the skin caused by a variety of conditions such as allergic reactions, eczema, and psoriasis. It is available in a strength of 0.2% and is used on the skin.
Westcort Ointment contains the active ingredient hydrocortisone valerate. It works by reducing the redness, swelling, itching, and other symptoms of inflammation.
Use and Dosage
Westcort Ointment should only be used on the skin. However, it should not be used on the face, groin, or underarms unless your doctor has instructed you to do so. Prior to usage, wash and dry your hands and the affected area. Follow your doctor's directions and apply a thin layer of medication to the affected area, rubbing it in gently. Apply it usually 2 to 3 times a day, but do not bandage, cover, or wrap the area unless instructed by your doctor.
After applying Westcort Ointment, wash your hands unless you are using it to treat your hands. While applying it near the eyes, ensure that it does not get into your eyes as it may worsen or lead to glaucoma. Avoid getting the medication in your nose or mouth, and rinse with plenty of water if it comes in contact with these areas.
Only use Westcort Ointment for the medical condition it is prescribed for and not longer than prescribed. If your condition persists or worsens after 2 weeks, inform your doctor. As with any medication, follow the instructions of your healthcare provider and use the Ointment only as directed.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Westcort Ointment (Hydrocortisone 17 Valerate):
- Application site reactions (skin redness, burning, itching, peeling, stinging, irritation, or dryness)
- Blistering skin
- Stretch marks
- Thinning of your skin
Serious Side Effects of Westcort Ointment (Hydrocortisone 17 Valerate):
- Diarrhea
- Difficulty breathing
- Dry mouth
- Fruity breath odor
- Hives
- Increased body hair
- Increased thirst
- Increased urination
- Menstrual changes
- Mood changes
- Muscle weakness
- Nausea
- Redness, warmth, swelling, oozing, or severe irritation of any treated skin
- Serious eye symptoms such as sudden vision loss, blurred vision, tunnel vision, eye pain or swelling, or seeing halos around lights
- Serious heart symptoms such as fast, irregular, or pounding heartbeats; fluttering in your chest; shortness of breath; and sudden dizziness, lightheartedness, or passing out
- Severe headache, confusion, slurred speech, arm or leg weakness, trouble walking, loss of coordination, feeling unsteady, very stiff muscles, high fever, profuse sweating, or tremors
- Sexual changes
- Slow wound healing
- Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Thinning or discolored skin
- Tiredness
- Weight gain (especially in your face, upper back, and torso)
- Worsening of your skin condition
Forms and Strength
Westcort Ointment (Hydrocortisone 17 Valerate) is available in the following forms and strength:
Hydrocortisone 17 Valerate: Ointment
- 0.20%
Cautions
- Chronic topical corticosteroid therapy may interfere with growth and development in pediatric patients.
- Systemic absorption of topical corticosteroids can produce reversible hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis suppression with the potential for glucocorticosteroid insufficiency.
- Topical hydrocortisone is used for its anti-inflammatory or immunosuppressive properties to treat inflammation due to corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses.
- Topical corticosteroids, including hydrocortisone valerate, may increase the risk of skin infections by suppressing immune function in the skin.
- The use of hydrocortisone valerate should be avoided in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to hydrocortisone or any of the components of the formulation.
- If irritation or sensitization occurs with the use of hydrocortisone valerate, treatment should be discontinued.
- Long-term use of topical corticosteroids may result in skin atrophy, including thinning of the skin, striae, telangiectasia, and purpura.
- The use of hydrocortisone valerate should be avoided near the eyes, as it may cause glaucoma or cataracts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How should I store Westcort ointment?
Westcort ointment should be stored at room temperature, away from heat and moisture. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children.
How long should I use Westcort ointment?
The length of time you should use Westcort ointment depends on the severity of your skin condition and your doctor's instructions. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully and do not use more or less of the medication than prescribed.
Is Westcort ointment safe for children?
Westcort ointment can be used in children, but the dosage may need to be adjusted based on the child's age and size. Talk to your child's doctor before using Westcort ointment or any other medication on your child's skin.
Resources
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/hydrocortisone-valerate-topical-application-route/precautions/drg-20073699?p=1
- https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/lookup.cfm?setid=a9011d6f-6808-48a7-ab6b-df8d40540570
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-3342/westcort-topical/details
- https://www.goodrx.com/hydrocortisone/what-is
- https://www.rxlist.com/westcort-ointment-drug.htm
- https://www.drugs.com/pro/westcort.html
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