This second section of our medication database entry focuses on potential side effects, withdrawal or discontinuation effects, and additional information, while part one covers basic drug characteristics, uses and benefits.
Or click here for clinical trials research information on hydrocortisone.
What are the possible side effects of hydrocortisone?
- If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking hydrocortisone and seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately:
- an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
- increased blood pressure (severe headache or blurred vision); or
- sudden weight gain (more than 5 pounds in a day or two).
- Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take hydrocortisone and talk to your doctor if you experience
- insomnia;
- nausea, vomiting, or stomach upset;
- fatigue or dizziness;
- muscle weakness or joint pain;
- problems with diabetes control; or
- increased hunger or thirst.
- Other side effects that occur only rarely, usually with high doses or prolonged use of hydrocortisone may include
- acne;
- increased hair growth;
- thinning of the skin,
- cataracts;
- glaucoma;
- osteoporosis;
- roundness of the face; and
- changes in behavior.
- Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.
What other drugs will affect hydrocortisone?
- Do not take any other over-the-counter or prescription medications, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products, during treatment with hydrocortisone without first talking to your doctor. Many other medicines can interact with hydrocortisone resulting in side effects or altered effectiveness of the medications.
Where can I get more information?
- Your pharmacist has additional information about hydrocortisone written for health professionals that you may read.
- Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.
Limitations and the Source of Our Online Medication Information Database
Although we have made considerable efforts to ensure that the information provided here is accurate, up-to-date, and complete, MedLibrary.org makes no guarantee to that effect. Drug information contained herein may be time sensitive. This medication information does not endorse drugs, diagnose patients or recommend any specific pharmacotherapy. This is an educational resource only -- intended to supplement but not to replace the expertise, skill, knowledge and judgment of medically qualified healthcare practitioners. The absence of a warning for a given drug or drug combination in no way should be construed to indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective or appropriate for any given patient. The information contained herein is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. If you have questions about the drugs you are taking, please check with your doctor, nurse or local pharmacist. MedLibrary.org does not assume any responsibility for any aspect of healthcare administered with the aid of information provided here.
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Version: 5.01. Revision date: 8/7/03.