Hydrocortisone Cream
Hydrocortisone is a mild corticosteroid that reduces inflammation, itching, and swelling by suppressing the immune response in the local skin cells.
Dosage by Body Weight
Apply a thin film to the affected area 2 to 4 times daily. Gently rub in. Do not use for more than 7 days consecutively without consulting a physician. Avoid contact with eyes and face unless directed.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- Not recommended
- Frequency
- Use only if prescribed
- Tracking Notes
- Topical steroids can be absorbed in systemic amounts in infants. Avoid use unless under direct supervision of a pediatrician.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- Apply sparingly (thin layer)
- Frequency
- 1 to 2 times daily
- Tracking Notes
- Apply only to affected areas. Do not apply to diaper area under tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants, as this increases absorption.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- Apply sparingly (thin layer)
- Frequency
- 1 to 2 times daily
- Tracking Notes
- Use for the shortest duration possible. Avoid covering treated areas with airtight dressings or bandages.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- Apply thin layer
- Frequency
- 1 to 2 times daily
- Tracking Notes
- Wash hands before and after application. Avoid application on open wounds, weeping skin, or infected areas.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- Apply thin layer
- Frequency
- 1 to 2 times daily
- Tracking Notes
- Monitor for skin thinning if used long-term. Consult a doctor if condition does not improve within 7 days.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | Not recommended | Use only if prescribed | Topical steroids can be absorbed in systemic amounts in infants. Avoid use unless under direct supervision of a pediatrician. |
| 5-7 kg | Apply sparingly (thin layer) | 1 to 2 times daily | Apply only to affected areas. Do not apply to diaper area under tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants, as this increases absorption. |
| 8-10 kg | Apply sparingly (thin layer) | 1 to 2 times daily | Use for the shortest duration possible. Avoid covering treated areas with airtight dressings or bandages. |
| 11-15 kg | Apply thin layer | 1 to 2 times daily | Wash hands before and after application. Avoid application on open wounds, weeping skin, or infected areas. |
| 16-20 kg | Apply thin layer | 1 to 2 times daily | Monitor for skin thinning if used long-term. Consult a doctor if condition does not improve within 7 days. |
Formulation
Purpose
Temporary relief of itching, redness, swelling, and discomfort associated with minor skin irritations, eczema, insect bites, poison ivy, oak, sumac, and seborrheic dermatitis.
Generic Name
Hydrocortisone (Topical)Branded Drug Names
Hydrocortisone Cream is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
No. This medicine is generally not treated as a scheduled/prescription-only drug in common consumer references, but local rules may vary.