Is Hydrocortisone Cream Good For Psoriasis

Common Conditions Hydrocortisone Creams Can Treat

Hydrocortisone cream is an appropriate treatment for many allergic skin rashes, such as atopic dermatitis and allergic contact dermatitis . It is also good for treating insect bites or stings. Other conditions hydrocortisone creams can treat include:

• Irritant contact dermatitis
• Seborrheic dermatitis

The choice and strength of hydrocortisone cream product depend largely on the specific skin condition.

Topical Coal Tar: An Old Stand

Coal tar is one of the oldest known treatments for psoriasis. These products are effective in treating mild to moderate psoriasis with few side effects, but can be messy with a pungent odor, and leave stains on clothes and other fabrics.

The exact way that coal tar treats psoriasis is not known. However, it does increase the skin’s absorption of UVB light for an added effect.

Coal tar can be found over-the-counter in shampoos, creams and lotions and can be used in combination with corticosteroids and emollients to soften the skin.

It is also used with ultraviolet-B light in a treatment known as Goeckerman treatment.

• Goeckerman treatment is a course of UV light therapy combined with coal tar for more moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis.
• It is messy and smelly, but can be effective however, not many doctors offer this treatment The regimen is usually given daily over several weeks at a time.

How Do I Choose The Best Over

There are several over-the-counter psoriasis treatment options available including aloe, hydrocortisone creams, and oatmeal bath products. Some psoriasis sufferers have found relief with lesser known remedies available over-the-counter, such as Indian earth and menthol sprays. Psoriasis is a common skin condition that creates large patches of dry, red skin that may be located on any part of the body including the scalp, back, and in creases of the body. In some cases it is characterized by layers of white, dead skin cells, referred to as plaque psoriasis. Some forms of this skin condition are thought to be genetic and all produce itchy, easily irritated skin.

Aloe is one of the most popular over-the-counter psoriasis treatment options on the market, and many patients have found great success using it. Medical experts suggest using aloe directly from the plant or in cream form. The product is to be applied directly the affected skin as often as needed. It is common for psoriasis sufferers and their doctors to try several treatments and medications before finding the appropriate combination.

Recommended Reading: What Is The Best Treatment For Guttate Psoriasis

Other Products Customers Like

On the market today there are many products and brands of hydrocortisone cream for you to choose. In addition to the above products, you can also refer to some other items such as Natureplex Hydrocortisone Cream Anti-Itch Cream, Hydrocortisone Cream Fast Itch, and Rash Relief, Hydrocortisone Anti Itch Cream, Hydrocortisone Ointment USP, Depending on demand and financial conditions, please choose a product line that best suits you!

National Psoriasis Foundation Shares Tips On Over

• The National Psoriasis Foundation released a webinar with dermatologist-recommended tips on over-the-counter products for psoriasis.
• Over-the-counter products like moisturizers, topical hydrocortisone, and topical tar-based products can help manage mild to moderate psoriasis.

The National Psoriasis Foundation released a new webinar, What You Need to Know About Over-the-Counter Treatments for Psoriatic Disease, on Sept. 23. In the webinar, dermatologist Dr. Steven Feldman, director of the Psoriasis Treatment Center at the Wake Forest School of Medicine in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, shared insights and tips on a wide variety of nonprescription products for psoriasis.

The majority of the webinar focused on treating and relieving the symptoms of mild to moderate psoriasis . As Dr. Feldman noted, over-the-counter products alone may not be sufficient in treating extensive disease.

Also Check: Home Remedies To Remove Psoriasis Scars

What Other Information Should I Know

Keep all appointments with your doctor.

Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about hydrocortisone topical.

It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.

Don’t Let Psoriasis Win: Fight Back

While psoriasis may be a lifelong and chronic condition, medications can make a dramatic improvement in skin lesions and one’s sense of well-being. That means no more fears to show a little skin your embarrassment is dramatically lessened and your self-confidence is boosted.

However, medications for psoriasis are some of the newest treatments on the market and it’s important you understand their use and side effects. Always follow the advice and direction of your health care provider.

• To expand your understanding, join force with other patients who share the same condition and have similar questions.
• Voice concerns with other group members and stay up-to-date with the with latest psoriasis news, all in the Drugs.com Psoriasis Q& A Center and Support Groups and the Psoriatic Arthritis Groups. There is always power in numbers!

Read Also: Treatment For Psoriasis On Lips

The Heartbreak: What Are The Causes Of Psoriasis

The exact causes of psoriasis are not fully known. Many researchers believe it is a combination of factors — including family history, a faulty immune system, and effects from the environment.

• In people with psoriasis, certain white blood cells that normally fight off infection instead attack healthy cells . It is the most prevalent autoimmune disease in the U.S.
• New skins cells are formed too quickly and result in a layer of dead, scaly skin and white blood cells that remain on the top layer of skin instead of sloughing off.
• These patches of skin and lesions are known as psoriatic lesions or plaque psoriasis.
• Psoriasis can lead to feelings of embarrasment, self-consciousness, and worry.

Who Can And Cannot Use Hydrocortisone Skin Treatments

Most adults and children aged 10 years and over can use hydrocortisone skin treatments.

Do not use hydrocortisone skin treatments on children under 10 years old unless their doctor recommends it.

Hydrocortisone is not suitable for some people. Tell your pharmacist or doctor before starting the medicine if you:

• have ever had an allergic reaction to hydrocortisone or any other medicine
• have a skin infection or eye infection
• are trying to get pregnant, are already pregnant or you’re breastfeeding

Also Check: Is There Treatment For Psoriasis

Best On A Budget: Cortizone 10 Anti

Because this cream has 1 percent hydrocortisone, Dr. Patel says it can really help with the annoying itching that often accompanies psoriasis. And while it’s an “Amazon’s Choice” favorite, it’s also very reasonably priced.

This cream contains 3 percent salicylic acid, which Dr. Patel says “should help exfoliate the rougher parts of the skin and make it smoother.” This makes it a good pick for knees and elbows, too.

Buy it: Price: $9.99 for 4 oz

How Long To Use It For

Most people only need to use hydrocortisone skin treatments for a short time. Stop as soon as your skin is better. Sometimes you only need to use the skin treatments for a few days.

For insect bites and stings, nappy rash or contact dermatitis you’ll probably only need to use a skin cream for up to 1 week.

For long-term skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis you may need to use treatments for longer.

If you buy hydrocortisone from a pharmacy or shop, do not use it for more than 1 week without talking to your doctor.

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Hydrocortisone Cream Usp 25% 30 Grams Label

NDC 0316-0193-30

WARNING: Keep out of reach of children.

For external use only. Not for ophthalmic use.

Each gram contains: 25 mg Hydrocortisone USP in a cream base consisting of purified water, cetyl alcohol, glycerin, stearyl alcohol, propylene glycol, sodium lauryl sulfate, cetyl palmitate and sorbic acid.

Usual Dosage: 2 to 4 applications daily. See package insert for full prescribing information.

TO OPEN: Use cap to puncture seal.

IMPORTANT: Do not use if seal has been punctured or is not visible.

Store at 20°C-25°C .

See crimp of tube for Lot Number and Expiration Date.

Manufactured and Distributed by:

WARNING: Keep out of reach of children.

For external use only.

Not for ophthalmic use.

30 grams

Each gram contains: 25 mg Hydrocortisone USP in a cream base consisting of purified water, cetyl alcohol, glycerin, stearyl alcohol, propylene glycol, sodium lauryl sulfate, cetyl palmitate and sorbic acid.

Usual Dosage: 2 to 4 applications daily. See package insert for full prescribing information.

Directions for puncturing tube seal: Remove cap. Turn cap upside down and place puncture tip onto tube seal. Push cap down until seal is punctured. Screw cap back on to reseal tube.

IMPORTANT: Do not use if seal has been punctured or is not visible.

Store at 20°-25°C .

See end of carton for Lot Number and Expiration Date.

Manufactured and Distributed by:

Crown Laboratories, Inc., Johnson City, TN 37604

P11338.00

Who Can Use It

Not everyone can use every medication. Certain people may have ailments or are taking other treatments that increase the chance of experiencing adverse reactions. You should ask a healthcare professional about other treatments if any of the following apply to you:

• you have had an allergic reaction to corticosteroids in the past
• you are currently taking any other steroid treatment
• your skin condition is on the face, genitals or includes open wounds
• your skin condition is the result of a bacterial or viral infection
• you have undiagnosed or infected skin lesions

Recommended Reading: What Can You Do For Scalp Psoriasis

Using Hydrocortisone With Other Skin Creams

Do not apply hydrocortisone at the same time as other creams or ointments such as a moisturiser. Wait at least 10 minutes between using hydrocortisone and any other product. Try to use different skin products at different times of the day.

If you’re using a dressing like a bandage or plaster, wait at least 10 minutes after putting hydrocortisone on.

What Drugs Interact With Decadron

Decadron may interact with aminoglutethimide, potassium-depleting agents , macrolide antibiotics, anticholinesterases, oral anticoagulants, antidiabetics, antitubercular drugs, cholestyramine, cyclosporine, dexamethasone suppression tests , digitalis glycosides, ephedrine, estrogens and oral contraceptives, barbiturates, phenytoin, carbamazepine, rifampin, ketoconazole, aspirin or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs , phenytoin, skin tests, thalidomide, and live or inactivated vaccines. Tell your doctor all medications and supplements you use and all vaccines you recently received. Decadron should be used during pregnancy or during breastfeeding only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus or infant. Infants may suffer adrenal suppression if their mothers use this drug during pregnancy. In special instances , Decadron has been used in pediatric patients. Such use should be done in most patients in conjunction with a pediatric specialist.

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Eucerin Skin Calming Itch Relief Treatment

This fragrance-free lotion contains cooling menthol and soothing oatmeal to help relieve and calm itch. Although it wasnât created for people with psoriasis, its ability to âhelp relieve night-time itching,â according to the manufacturer, might appeal to people with psoriasis who know this problem all too well.

How To Apply Safely

Topical corticosteroid should be applied in a thin layer and massaged into the affected area one to four times per day as directed. The treatment typically lasts until the psoriatic plaques resolve. In some cases, a stronger topical drug will be used to penetrate thickened plaques and switched to a milder form once the major scaling has been reduced.

Some corticosteroids are used on an intermittent basis whenever signs of a flare develop. These will usually be milder Class VI or VII drugs that can be applied when needed. Always check the expiration date and let your healthcare provider know well in advance if you need a refill.

Never apply a topical corticosteroid to skin other than that directed by your dermatologist. This is especially true with respect to the genitals and face.

Unless your healthcare provider tells you otherwise, never apply topical corticosteroids to the eyelids or under the eyes. Topical steroids should never be used internally or applied to cracked, bleeding, or infected skin.

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Topical Retinoids: Vitamin A Derivatives

Tazarotene is a vitamin A derivative that affects epidermal cell growth in psoriasis and exhibits some anti-inflammatory action. It is also available as a generic option.

• Tazarotene comes in a cream or gel and is used primarily for mild to moderate psoriasis. Tazorac is also approved for acne treatment.
• Other brands of tazarotene, approved for other uses, include Arazlo , Fabior and Avage
• In 2019, a combination of halobetasol, a topical corticosteroid, and tazarotene from Bausch Health was FDA-approved for plaque psoriasis.

Acitretin is an oral retinoid, also a form of vitamin A, that comes as a capsule .

• It is used for severe forms of psoriasis that do not respond to other treatments. Acitretin is not a cure for psoriasis, and your psoriasis may come back after you stop taking this medication.
• It is also available as a generic option.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Warnings

Important: View the patient counseling information for Tazorac or Soriatane to learn more about the Contraindications and Warnings for Use in pregnancy and breastfeeding and discuss this information with your doctor.

• Soriatane Patient Counseling Information

In addition, you must NOT become pregnant while taking acitretin and for at least 3 YEARS after stopping acitretin, so that the drug can be eliminated to below a blood concentration that would be associated with an increased incidence of birth defects.

Survey Reinforces Added Value Of Pharmacist Intervention

The United States is one of the only countries without a widespread third class of medications that would require pharmacist counseling .7 As a result of this situation, the vast majority of nonprescription products can be purchased at any location without pharmacist intervention. Since professional intervention is not required in sales of nonprescription products, the label must contain every bit of information needed to ensure proper use by the self-medicating patient.

The FDA assumes that patients using nonprescription products will read and heed all sections of the label, thoroughly understanding all of the information and acting exactly as the label directs. This assumption underlies virtually every decision made by the FDA regarding nonprescription products, but it is especially critical in Rx-to-OTC switched products such as hydrocortisone. To verify or disprove this assumption, researchers must survey actual users of the products in question.

A British study explored that issue for hydrocortisone products and the corticosteroid clobetasone .9 A group of researchers surveyed patients who purchased a topical steroid in 2003. The 315 respondents purchased the products intending to treat a variety of conditions, including eczema , dermatitis , insect bites , sweat rash , vaginal thrush , psoriasis , tinea pedis , diaper rash , acne , and other conditions . Several patients were treating multiple conditions.

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The Path To Nonprescription Status

Hydrocortisone was first marketed as a prescription medication in 1952.1 In 1956, the FDA was petitioned to switch hydrocortisone to nonprescription status. According to the agency, two factors were critical in denying the petition. First, there was insufficient evidence that consumers could safely self-medicate with hydrocortisone. Second, the agency was concerned about percutaneous absorption.

In 1979, the FDA OTC review process was ongoing. The Advisory Panel on Topical Analgesic, Antirheumatic, Otic, Burn, and Sunburn Prevention and Treatment Drug Products began meeting in 1973, and through 70 subsequent meeting days considered hydrocortisone and other ingredients.2 The panel was composed of six physicians and a pharmacist/PhD who was serving as dean of a school of pharmacy.

In the late 1980s, the FDA received a citizens petition to allow hydrocortisone 1% to gain nonprescription status. A 1990 Notice of Proposed Rulemaking alerted the nations health care professionals that the agency would allow the stronger concentration to be marketed if correctly labeled.5 This amendment was finalized, and patients were able to benefit from the enhanced efficacy of the 1% products.

Hydrocortisone Cream And Ointment

Creams are better for skin that is moist and weepy. Ointments are thicker and greasier, and are better for dry or flaky areas of skin.

Most people need to use hydrocortisone cream or ointment once or twice a day. If you use it twice a day, try to leave a gap of 8 to 12 hours before putting on any more.

Important: Fire warning

Skin creams can dry onto your clothes and bedding. This makes them more likely to catch fire. Avoid naked flames.

The amount of cream or ointment you need to use is sometimes measured in fingertip units. This is the amount of you can squeeze onto the end of your finger.

A fingertip unit is generally enough to treat both sides of your hand.

For babies and children, the right amount depends on their age. Your doctor or pharmacist can advise you.

Recommended Reading: How To Deal With Psoriasis On Scalp

Methotrexate : A Longer

Methotrexate , is a folic acid antagonist, meaning it blocks the action of folic acid. Methotrexate is often abbreviated “MTX”.

• Methotrexate comes as a once-weekly oral tablet or injection that suppresses the immune system and DNA synthesis to slow down skin cell turnover.
• MTX can be used long-term for moderate to severe psoriasis and for psoriatic arthritis, but results with MTX may not be seen for several months. Review MTX dosing here.
• Your doctor may also prescribe folic acid in addition to MTX to help lessen stomach and other side effects.
• MTX can be toxic to the liver and other organs lab monitoring will be needed.

MTX should NOT be used in women who are pregnant or planning a pregnancy men should also stop its use 3 months before conception. Use effective contraception during and after treatment with methotrexate.

• Effective birth control is recommended for females of reproductive potential during therapy and for at least 6 months after the final dose.
• Effective contraception is recommended for males with female partners of reproductive potential during therapy and for at least 3 months after the final dose of methotrexate.