Hydrocortisone
Generic Name
hydrocortisone-100-mg-injection
Manufacturer
Various Pharmaceutical Companies
Country
Various Countries
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| hydrocortisone 100 mg injection | ৳ 72.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Hydrocortisone is a corticosteroid used to treat a wide range of inflammatory and autoimmune conditions, as well as adrenal insufficiency. The 100 mg injection is typically used for acute or severe cases requiring rapid action.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Typically 100-500 mg intravenously (IV) or intramuscularly (IM), repeated every 2-6 hours as needed, depending on the severity of the condition and patient response.
Elderly
Lower doses or careful titration may be required due to increased sensitivity and potential for adverse effects.
Renal_impairment
No specific dose adjustment is typically needed, but patients should be monitored for fluid and electrolyte balance.
How to Take
Hydrocortisone 100 mg injection is administered by a healthcare professional, either as a slow intravenous (IV) injection (bolus) or as an intravenous infusion, or via intramuscular (IM) injection.
Mechanism of Action
Hydrocortisone binds to glucocorticoid receptors in the cytoplasm, leading to a cascade of events that modulate gene expression. This results in potent anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressive, and anti-allergic effects by inhibiting the release of inflammatory mediators and altering immune cell function.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Rapid, within minutes for IV administration; 1-6 hours for IM administration.
Excretion
Mainly via urine as metabolites, with a small portion excreted unchanged.
Half life
Plasma half-life: 1-2 hours; Biological half-life: 8-12 hours.
Absorption
Rapidly and completely absorbed after intramuscular (IM) or intravenous (IV) administration.
Metabolism
Primarily metabolized in the liver to inactive metabolites (e.g., tetrahydrocortisone and tetrahydrocortisol).
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Systemic fungal infections
- Hypersensitivity to hydrocortisone or any component of the formulation
- Live or live-attenuated vaccines during immunosuppressive doses of corticosteroids
Drug Interactions
Warfarin
Hydrocortisone may alter the anticoagulant effect of warfarin; close monitoring of INR is required.
Barbiturates, Phenytoin, Rifampin
May decrease hydrocortisone effects by inducing hepatic metabolism.
NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs)
Increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding and ulceration.
Diuretics (especially loop or thiazide diuretics)
Increased potassium loss and risk of hypokalemia.
Storage
Store unopened vials below 25°C (77°F), protected from light and moisture. Do not freeze. Reconstituted solutions should be stored at room temperature and used promptly.
Overdose
Acute overdose is rare and generally does not lead to life-threatening effects. Long-term overdose can lead to Cushingoid features. Management involves symptomatic and supportive care; reduce dose or gradually withdraw if long-term use has occurred.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Hydrocortisone is excreted in breast milk; monitor infants for signs of corticosteroid effects.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Systemic fungal infections
- Hypersensitivity to hydrocortisone or any component of the formulation
- Live or live-attenuated vaccines during immunosuppressive doses of corticosteroids
Drug Interactions
Warfarin
Hydrocortisone may alter the anticoagulant effect of warfarin; close monitoring of INR is required.
Barbiturates, Phenytoin, Rifampin
May decrease hydrocortisone effects by inducing hepatic metabolism.
NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs)
Increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding and ulceration.
Diuretics (especially loop or thiazide diuretics)
Increased potassium loss and risk of hypokalemia.
Storage
Store unopened vials below 25°C (77°F), protected from light and moisture. Do not freeze. Reconstituted solutions should be stored at room temperature and used promptly.
Overdose
Acute overdose is rare and generally does not lead to life-threatening effects. Long-term overdose can lead to Cushingoid features. Management involves symptomatic and supportive care; reduce dose or gradually withdraw if long-term use has occurred.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Hydrocortisone is excreted in breast milk; monitor infants for signs of corticosteroid effects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years for the unopened vial, as per manufacturer's instructions. Reconstituted solution should be used within 24 hours.
Availability
Hospitals, Pharmacies
Approval Status
Approved
Patent Status
Generic
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Hydrocortisone has been extensively studied for decades, forming the basis of corticosteroid therapy. Ongoing clinical trials focus on new formulations, specific disease applications, and optimal dosing strategies, especially in critical care settings like septic shock.
Lab Monitoring
- Blood glucose levels (especially in diabetic patients)
- Electrolytes (e.g., potassium, sodium)
- Blood pressure monitoring
- Bone density scans (for long-term therapy)
- Adrenal function tests (if discontinuing therapy)
Doctor Notes
- Administer IV or IM only; ensure proper dilution and administration rate for IV bolus/infusion.
- Monitor for signs of adrenal insufficiency (e.g., fatigue, hypotension) upon withdrawal, especially after prolonged high-dose therapy.
- Careful monitoring of blood glucose, electrolytes, and blood pressure is crucial during therapy.
- For septic shock, consider hydrocortisone only in patients with refractory shock despite adequate fluid and vasopressor therapy.
Patient Guidelines
- Do not discontinue hydrocortisone abruptly, especially after long-term use, without consulting a doctor.
- Report any unusual symptoms, such as severe fatigue, dizziness, or mood changes, to your healthcare provider.
- Avoid exposure to infections, as corticosteroids can suppress the immune system.
- Carry an identification card indicating your steroid use, especially in emergencies.
Missed Dose Advice
As this medication is typically administered by a healthcare professional in a hospital or clinical setting, a missed dose is unlikely. If a scheduled dose is missed, inform the nurse or doctor immediately.
Driving Precautions
Hydrocortisone may cause dizziness, blurred vision, or mood changes in some individuals. Patients should be cautious when driving or operating machinery until they know how the medication affects them.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D to support bone health.
- Engage in regular, moderate exercise (if permitted by your doctor) to counteract muscle weakness and bone loss.
- Limit sodium intake to help manage fluid retention and high blood pressure.
- Avoid alcohol and smoking, as they can worsen side effects and underlying conditions.
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