HYDROCORTISONE OINTMENT (HYDROCORTISONE)

About Hydrocortisone Ointment

For effective treatment of eczema, psoriasis, rashes causes by poison ivy or oak, and allergic reactions, your doctor can prescribe brand or generic Hydrocortisone Ointment to relieve the inflammation, redness, and itching. Hydrocortisone Ointment is a medium strength topical corticosteroid and the ointment formulation is ideal for trapping in moisture as well as increased absorption properties. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

Enjoy Symptom Relief with Hydrocortisone

When applied to the affected skin, Hydrocortisone Ointment is absorbed into your skin cells and enters the skin cell nuclei so it can turn off certain DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) factors. This causes the skin cells to produce lipocortins. These are chemicals that suppress a particular enzyme in order to inhibit inflammation. As inflammation eases, the redness and itching will be reduced.

Once the affected skin area has calmed down, usually within 7-14 days, stop applying Hydrocortisone Ointment as over-usage may cause the skin to become thinner. Hydrocortisone Ointment is not a cure for eczema, psoriasis, or allergic reactions, but it can be a valuable topical Rx medication for relief of the symptoms these skin conditions can cause.

Conditions Treated by Hydrocortisone Ointment

Allergic reactions to poison ivy, sumac or oak occur from contact with Urushiol, the oily sap of these plants or shrubs. Urushiol is found in the leaves, stems, and roots and is still able to cause a rash after the plant has died. If this is the first time you have encountered any of these poisonous plants, you may not even realize it as sensitivity only builds up after you have been exposed to Urushiol. Your immune system is alerted by the skin that something harmful occurred and so preparations are put into play in order to be ready for the next time this happens which causes the allergic reactions.

Before Hydrocortisone Ointment is Prescribed

Ask your doctor if Hydrocortisone Ointment is safe to apply if you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or are breast feeding. Explain other medical conditions or allergies to your doctor and include a list of Rx and OTC meds you currently take or use, including herbal remedies and vitamin supplements. This will help your doctor determine if Hydrocortisone Ointment is the right medication for you.

Hydrocortisone Ointment Precautions

If your skin condition has not shown any improvement after two weeks of applying Hydrocortisone Ointment as instructed, revisit your doctor. As the ointment formulation of this product helps increase absorption, do not cover or bandage the treated areas unless told otherwise by your doctor. Be careful not to get any Hydrocortisone Ointment in your eyes or mouth. Keep Hydrocortisone and all other medications out of children’s reach and never share with others.

Possible Hydrocortisone Ointment Side Effects

• Acne
• Dry skin
• Skin irritation or redness
• Changes to skin color on treated area