Dermacort Hydrocortisone Cream

The name of the medicine is Dermacort. The active ingredient is 0.1% Hydrocortisone, in a lanolin-free cream base that is quickly absorbed into the skin to treat the irritation that causes itching. Dermacort reduces swelling and redness and allows healing.

Dermacort can be used for the treatment of skin irritations, dermatitis and rashes due to reactions to plants, insect bites, jewellery, toiletries, deodorants, soaps and detergents. It may also be used for the treatment of mild to moderate eczema.

Corticosteroid creams, ointments and other topical preparations come in four different strengths. These are known as mild, moderately potent, potent or very potent. Healthcare professionals will usually refer to topical corticosteroid potency rather than strength. A potent corticosteroid has a much stronger effect than a mild corticosteroid. Be aware the percentage of active ingredient that is sometimes included on product packaging does not indicate potency. Dermacort is classed as a mild corticosteroid.

Dermacort is for EXTERNAL USE ONLY.

• Adults and children over 10 years: Apply a thin layer to cover the affected area once or twice a day.
• You should find that:
  • two fingertips of cream will treat both hands or one foot
  • three fingertips of cream will treat one arm
• You should only apply the cream to the affected area
• Rub in gently until the cream disappears.
• Wash your hands before and after application, unless used for treating the hands

Do not use Dermacort for more than one week. If the condition does not improve after one week consult your doctor.

Like all medicines, this medicine can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. You may find that your condition gets worse during treatment, you may be allergic to the cream or have a skin infection. lf this happens stop using the cream and contact your doctor or pharmacist as soon as possible.

Steroid withdrawal reaction:

If used for prolonged periods a withdrawal reaction, which might appear to be different from the previous condition, may occur in some patients during treatment or within days to weeks after on stopping treatment, with some or all of the following features: redness of the skin which can extend beyond the initial area treated, a burning or stinging sensation, intense itching, peeling of the skin, oozing open sores.

Uncommon side effect (may affect up to 1 in 100 people)

• Blurred vision

Reporting of side effects

If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist. This includes any possible side effects not listed in this leaflet. You can also report side effects directly via the Yellow Card Scheme at www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or search for MHRA Yellow Card in the Google Play or Apple App Store.

By reporting side effects you can help provide more information on the safety of this medicine.

Keep this medicine out of the sight and reach of children.

Do not use Dermacort after the expiry date which is stamped on the tube and the carton.

The expiry date refers to the last day of the month.

Dermacort should be stored in a cool, dry place (below 25°C).

Do not throw away any medicines via wastewater or household waste. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medicines no longer required. These measures will help protect the environment.