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Home > Drug Category > Skin Medications (Topical/Oral) > Cortate and Equivalent

Cortate Information

Cortate (hydrocortisone) is a widely used topical corticosteroid for the treatment of various inflammatory and itchy skin conditions that are responsive to this class of medication. It is effective in providing relief from symptoms of mild to moderate skin issues such as eczema, contact dermatitis, insect bites, and various rashes. As a low-potency corticosteroid, it is generally considered a safe and appropriate choice for a wide range of dermatological conditions. The primary function of hydrocortisone is to reduce inflammation, redness, swelling, and itching. It accomplishes this by preventing the body's cells from releasing inflammatory substances. This mechanism helps to calm the overactive immune response in the skin, allowing the affected area to heal. Its low-potency nature makes it a suitable option for long-term management of chronic conditions or for use on more sensitive areas of the body, though careful supervision is always recommended.

Cortate Side Effects

The most common side effects associated with the use of Cortate are localized and generally mild. Patients may experience a sensation of burning, itching, or irritation at the application site. These effects are typically temporary and often resolve with continued use. However, even with a low-potency steroid like hydrocortisone, prolonged or excessive use can increase the risk of more serious side effects. While these are rare, it is essential to be aware of them. You should contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of the serious side effects listed below:
• Skin changes: Long-term use of the corticosteroid component can lead to thinning of skin, a condition known as skin atrophy. This can result in increased susceptibility to easy bruising, the development of stretch marks (striae), spider veins (telangiectasias), or a noticeable softening and fragility of the skin. The risk of these effects is particularly high with long-term application on sensitive areas such as the face and groin, or when the medication is applied under occlusive dressings that enhance its absorption. You may also experience hypopigmentation (lightening of the skin).
• Systemic absorption: In sporadic cases, especially when the medication is applied for prolonged periods, to large areas of the body, or under occlusive dressings, enough medication may be absorbed into the bloodstream to cause systemic effects. Signs of systemic absorption may include adrenal suppression, a condition where the body's natural production of corticosteroids is inhibited. Symptoms may also resemble Cushing's syndrome, such as unexplained weight gain, muscle weakness, or a rounded facial appearance.
• Skin infections: The use of topical corticosteroids can sometimes mask the signs and symptoms of a pre-existing skin infection, making it difficult to diagnose. In some cases, it may even worsen an underlying disease.

Cortate Precautions

To ensure the safe and effective use of Cortate, it is essential to follow all precautions. You should not use this medication if you are allergic to hydrocortisone or any of its other ingredients. Cortate is for external use only. It is imperative to avoid contact with the eyes. The medication should not be used on a damaged or infected skin surface unless specifically prescribed by a doctor for that purpose, such as facial rosacea, perioral dermatitis, or certain fungal or viral infections (e.g., herpes simplex), as the steroid can exacerbate these conditions. To minimize the risk of systemic side effects, do not use Cortate for prolonged periods or on large areas of the body without the supervision of a healthcare professional. It is essential to inform your doctor about all the medications you are currently taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter products, and any herbal supplements. There are no known significant drug interactions with topical hydrocortisone. However, it is always best to keep your doctor informed about all your treatments.

If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, you should discuss the use of Cortate with your doctor. Cortate is classified as Pregnancy Category C. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women, and therefore, it should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is not known whether topical administration of corticosteroids could result in sufficient systemic absorption to produce detectable quantities in human milk. As a precaution, it is recommended to discuss this medication with your doctor before using it while breastfeeding.

Do I need a prescription to order Cortate?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Cortate.