HC45 Hydrocortisone Cream
OTC Products
HC45 Hydrocortisone Cream
OTC Products
Product features
- Treatment for Eczema, Dermatitis & Insect Bites
- Provides relief for up to 12 hours
- Clinically proven & dermatologically tested
Overview
NOTE: You must complete a short assessment so we can make sure the medication for this condition is suitable for you.
What is HC45 Hydrocortisone Cream?
HC45 Hydrocortisone Cream is a treatment for dry skin conditions, such as eczema and dermatitis, that can also be used to ease reactions to insect bites, nickel allergies, plant allergies, and other irritants. It soothes the inflammation which happens when your skin is exposed to something that irritates it, easing itching, irritation and other symptoms.
What is dermatitis?
Dermatitis is a type of eczema, a dry skin condition which flares up when your skin comes into contact with something that irritates it. If you have dermatitis, then avoiding a particular irritant can help you to avoid flare-ups, but this isn’t always possible, which is why some people need creams and other treatments to help to control their symptoms. Some of the most common symptoms of dermatitis include:
- Inflammation
- Dry skin
- Redness
- Blisters
- Cracked skin
- Thickened skin
How will HC45 Hydrocortisone Cream help to soothe dry skin and insect bites?
HC45 hydrocortisone cream contains 1% w/w of the active ingredient hydrocortisone acetate. This ingredient works by changing how your body reacts to irritants (which can aggravate eczema or dermatitis) and insect stings. This reduces inflammation in your skin, easing symptoms like redness, itching, and swelling.
FAQ
How does hydrocortisone work?
Hydrocortisone is a steroid (also called a corticosteroid). Steroids help to reduce swelling (inflammation) in the skin (and other parts of the body). Skin gets inflamed when an allergic reaction or irritation causes chemicals to be released in the skin. These make blood vessels widen and the irritated skin becomes red, swollen, itchy and painful. Hydrocortisone skin treatments work on your skin’s cells to stop these chemicals being released. This reduces symptoms like swelling, redness and itching.
When will my skin get better?
Your skin should start to get better after using hydrocortisone for a few days. If you’re using a treatment you’ve bought from a pharmacy or shop, speak to your doctor if you still have symptoms after 1 week, or if your skin gets worse at any time.
How long will I use hydrocortisone skin treatments for?
How long you use it for depends on why you're using it. For insect bites and stings, nappy rash or contact dermatitis you'll probably only need to use hydrocortisone for up to 1 week. For long-term skin problems such as eczema and psoriasis you may need to use hydrocortisone for longer. To reduce the risk of side effects your doctor may recommend that you only use hydrocortisone for a few weeks at a time. Once your skin is better, use moisturisers to keep it from becoming inflamed again.
Can I use hydrocortisone skin treatments on my face?
Do not use a hydrocortisone on your face unless a doctor has told you to and given you a prescription for it. The skin on your face is delicate, so if hydrocortisone damages it, it's particularly noticeable. Some common skin problems that affect the face, such as impetigo, rosacea and acne, can be made worse by hydrocortisone. If your doctor has prescribed hydrocortisone for your face, follow their instructions carefully. Do not put hydrocortisone near your eyes or on your eyelids.
Is it safe to use for a long time?
Using hydrocortisone for a long time without stopping can mean some of the medicine gets into your blood. If this happens, there's a very small chance it can cause serious side effects, such as adrenal gland problems, high blood sugar (hyperglycaemia), or problems with your eyesight. If you have been using hydrocortisone for a long time, your doctor may tell you to gradually reduce the amount you use before stopping completely.
Can I drink alcohol with it?
Yes, you can drink alcohol while using hydrocortisone.
Is there any food or drink I need to avoid?
No, you can eat and drink normally while using hydrocortisone.
Can I still have vaccinations?
Using hydrocortisone cream does not stop you or your child having vaccinations. But tell the doctor or nurse that you're using hydrocortisone cream so they can give the vaccine in an untreated area of skin.
Will it affect my fertility?
There’s no clear evidence that hydrocortisone skin treatments affect male or female fertility.
Will it affect my contraception?
Hydrocortisone for skin does not affect any types of contraception, including the combined pill or the emergency contraception.
Can I drive or ride a bike?
Hydrocortisone does not make you sleepy, so it's safe to drive, ride a bike, or use tools and machinery when using this medicine.
Side Effects
Does HC45 Cream have any side effects?
Like all medications, HC45 Cream can have side effects, although not everyone will experience them. This includes local skin reactions. If you experience any side effects while using this product, stop use and speak to your doctor or pharmacist right away. For more information about reporting the side effects of medication, please see the MHRA’s Yellow Card Scheme.
Other
Info Leaflet
https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.5651.pdf
