Hydrocortisone for Itching

Topic Overview

Hydrocortisone cream, gel, or ointment is available without a prescription. It is commonly used to treat skin inflammation and itching.

Precautions

• Carefully read and follow all label directions on the medicine bottle or box.
• Do not use the cream on children younger than age 2 unless your doctor tells you to.
• Do not use in the diaper area unless your doctor tells you to.
• Do not use in the rectal or vaginal area on children younger than age 12 unless your doctor tells you to.
• Do not continue to use the cream if there is no improvement after 48 hours.
• Do not continue to use the cream longer than 4 to 5 days unless your doctor tells you to.
• Do not use hydrocortisone cream on weeping, scraped, or infected skin.
• Avoid getting the cream in the eyes.
• Use very sparingly on facial rashes and on the back of the hands.

Dosage: Apply to the rash area 4 times a day. Rub the cream in well.

Side effects

• Burning
• Increased itching
• Increase in rash
• Skin infection

If side effects occur, stop using the cream. Call your doctor if treatment of the condition is still needed.