hydrocortisone acetate

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum: 

Action: 

Hydrocortisone acetate exerts its effects by binding to glucocorticoid receptors within cells. These receptors become activated because of this binding, which then modulates the transcription of various genes. 

The activated glucocorticoid receptors influence the synthesis of proteins, resulting in anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressive, and metabolic effects. 

Spectrum: 

Eczema: It can help alleviate itching, redness, and inflammation associated with eczema. 

Dermatitis: This includes various forms of dermatitis, such as contact dermatitis or atopic dermatitis. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency not defined  

Thinning of skin 

Mild depigmentation 

Hypertrichosis 

Hypersensitivity reactions 

Exacerbation of infection 

Contact dermatitis 

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning:  

None

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution:  

Allergy or hypersensitivity: Individuals with a known hypersensitivity or allergy to hydrocortisone acetate or any of its components should avoid using this medication. 

Viral infections: It’s generally advised to avoid using hydrocortisone acetate on viral infections like herpes simplex, herpes zoster, or chickenpox, as it can worsen these conditions. 

Rosacea or perioral dermatitis: The use of corticosteroids like hydrocortisone acetate is usually not recommended for these conditions as they can exacerbate the symptoms. 

Acne: Topical corticosteroids can sometimes worsen acne or cause acneiform eruptions. 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy warnings:     

Pregnancy category: N/A 

Lactation: Excreted into human milk is unknown 

Pregnancy Categories:         

Category A: Studies that were well-controlled and met expectations revealed no risk to the fetus in either the first or second trimester. 

Category B: There were a lack of studies on pregnant women and no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal experiments.   

Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.    

Category D: adequate data with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits.   

Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women.    

Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category

Pharmacology

Pharmacology:  

Hydrocortisone acetate is a synthetic glucocorticoid. 

Pharmacodynamics:  

Hydrocortisone acetate exerts its effects by binding to glucocorticoid receptors within cells. These receptors become activated because of this binding, which then modulates the transcription of various genes. 

The activated glucocorticoid receptors influence the synthesis of proteins, resulting in anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressive, and metabolic effects.  

Pharmacokinetics: 

Absorption 

When applied to the skin, hydrocortisone acetate can be absorbed through the epidermis and into the systemic circulation. 

Distribution 

Once absorbed, hydrocortisone acetate distributes widely throughout the body. 

It can cross cell membranes and enter cells to exert its effects. 

Hydrocortisone acetate may bind to plasma proteins, which affects its distribution within the bloodstream. 

Metabolism 

Hydrocortisone acetate undergoes metabolism primarily in the liver. 

Enzymes, particularly hepatic enzymes, metabolize hydrocortisone acetate into various metabolites, which are then excreted from the body. 

Excretion and Elimination 

Metabolites of hydrocortisone acetate are primarily excreted through the kidneys in the form of urine. 

The elimination half-life is six to eight hours. 

Some metabolites may also be eliminated through bile and feces. 

Adminstartion

Administration:  

Topical Cream/Ointment: 

Apply ointment/cream thin layer to the affected area, gently rubbing it in. 

Wash your hands thoroughly after application unless the hands are the area being treated. 

Follow the prescribed frequency and duration of application. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: hydrocortisone acetate 

Why do we use hydrocortisone acetate?  

In some cases, hydrocortisone acetate in the form of a cream or ointment may be used to ease itching, swelling, and discomfort associated with hemorrhoids. Conditions such as pruritus due to various causes may be treated with hydrocortisone acetate to relieve the itching sensation.