Ala-Cort

Hydrocortisone topical belongs to a group of medications called corticosteroids. It is used to help relieve itching, redness, swelling or other discomfort caused by skin conditions.

This medication is avaliable with your doctor’s prescription and over the counter.

This product is available in the following forms:

• Solution
• Cream
• Spray
• Lotion
• Ointment
• Pad
• Liquid
• Gel/Jelly
• Kit
• Foam
• Stick
• Paste

As with all medicines, the risks must be compared to how much a medication will help you. This is a decision that you and your doctor will make together. For this medication, there are many things that need to be considered:

Allergies:

Inform your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction to doxorubicin or to any other medications. It is also important to inform your doctor of any non-medicine allergies such as foods, dyes, preservatives or animals.

Pediatric:

Up-to-date Pediatric Appropriate studies have not indicated that the use of this medication causes any problems that would limit the use of this medication.

Geriatric:

No appropriate studies have been performed on the relationship of age to the effects of this medication in elderly patients.

Drug Interactions:

Certain medications should not be used together. However, in certain cases, two medications may be used together, even if an interaction might occur. In these cases, your doctor may want to change your dose or take other precautions.

When taking this medication, it is important that you inform your doctor if you are taking any prescription or over the counter medications.

Other Medical Problems:

Pre-existing medical problems may affect the use of this medication. Be sure to tell your doctor if you have any other medical problems, especially:

• Cushing’s syndrome (adrenal gland disorder).
• Diabetes
• Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar).
• Intracranial hypertension (increased head pressure) - Use with caution. May make these conditions worse.
• Skin infection at or near application site.
• Large sores, broken skin or severe skin injury at application site - The chance of side effects may be increased.

Only take this medication as directed by your doctor. Do not take more, less or for a longer or shorter period of time than your doctor tells you.

This medication is for use on the skin only. Do not get it in your eyes. Do not use it on areas that have cuts, scrapes or burns. If it gets on these areas, rinse it off with water.

This medication should only be used for skin conditions that your doctor is treating. Ask your doctor before using it for other conditions, especially if you think you may have a skin infection. This medication should not be used to treat certain kinds of skin infections or conditions, such as severe burns.

To use:

• Wash your hands with soap and water before and after using this medication.
• Apply a thin layer of this medication to the affected area of the skin and gently rub it in.
• When using lotion, shake well before using.
• Do not bandage or wrap the skin being treated unless directed by your doctor.
• If this medication is applied to the diaper area of an infant, do not use tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants unless directed by your doctor.
• If your doctor ordered an occlusive dressing or airtight cover to be applied over the medications, make sure you know how to apply it. Occlusive dressings increase the amount of medication absorbed through the skin, so only use them as directed. If you have any questions about this, ask your doctor.

Dosing:

Different patients will be given a different dose of this medication based on the strength of the medication. The number of doses you take each day, the time between doses and the length of time you take this medication depends on the reason you are taking this medication. The following information only includes the average dose of this medication. If your dose is different, do not change it without first speaking to your doctor.

• Cream:

        -Adults: Apply to the affected area 2-3 times per day.
        -Children: Apply to the affected area 2-3 times per day.

• Lotion:

        -Adults: Apply to the affected area 2-4 times per day.
        -Children: Apply to the affected area 2-4 times per day.

• Ointment:

        -Adults: Apply to the affected area 3-4 times per day.
        -Children: Apply to the affected area 3-4 times per day.

• Solution:

        -Adults: Apply to the affected area 3-4 times per day.
        -Children: Apply to the affected area 3-4 times per day.

Missed dose:

If you miss a dose of this medication, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your normal dosing schedule. Do not double dose.

Storage:

Store this medication in a closed container at room temperature. Keep it away form heat, moisture and direct light. Do not freeze. Keep our of the reach of children

Do not keep expired medication or medication you no longer need. Ask your doctor how to dispose of any medication you do not use.

It is very important that your doctor checks in with the you often while you are receiving this medication to make sure that it is working properly.

If your symptoms do not improve within a few days, or if they become worse, inform your doctor.

Using too much of this medication or using it for an extended amount of time may increase your risk of adrenal gland problems. The risk is greater for children and patients who use this medication for an extended period of time. Inform your doctor immediately if you experience blurred vision, dizziness or fainting (syncope), a fast, irregular or pounding heartbeat (tachycardia, palpitations), increased thirst or urination (polydipsia, polyuria), irritability or unusual fatigue or weakness.

Stop using this medication and inform your doctor immediately if you have a skin rash, burning, stinging, swelling or irritation on the skin.

Do not use cosmetics or other skin care products on the treated areas.

Some side effects that may occur do not normally need medical attention. These may leave as your body becomes accustomed to treatment. Ask your doctor about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Ask your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.