Safely Buy Cortef ( Hydrocortisone ) from Canada Prescriptions Plus.

Indications

Cortef is a brand name for hydrocortisone, which is a steroid medication used to treat a variety of conditions such as allergic disorders, skin conditions, ulcerative colitis, arthritis, and breathing problems.

Cortef works by reducing inflammation and suppressing the immune system.

Use and Dosage

Take this medication by mouth, with food or milk to prevent stomach upset, exactly as directed by your doctor. Take this medication with a full glass of water (8 ounces/240 millilitres) unless your doctor directs you otherwise.

Follow the dosing schedule carefully. The dosage and length of treatment are based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Your doctor may direct you to take hydrocortisone 1 to 4 times a day or take a single dose every other day. It may help to mark your calendar with reminders or use a pill box.

Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when this drug is suddenly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased.

If you suddenly stop using this medication, you may have withdrawal symptoms (such as weakness, weight loss, nausea, muscle pain, headache, tiredness, and dizziness). To help prevent withdrawal, your doctor may lower your dose slowly. Withdrawal is more likely if you have used hydrocortisone for a long time or in high doses. Tell your doctor or pharmacist right away if you have withdrawal. See also the Precautions section.

Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse.

Side Effects

Nausea, heartburn, headache, trouble sleeping, increased sweating, or acne may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Because this drug works by weakening the immune system, it may lower your ability to fight infections. This may make you more likely to get a serious (rarely fatal) infection or make any infection you have worse. Tell your doctor right away if you have any signs of infection (such as cough, sore throat, fever, or chills). Use of this medication for prolonged or repeated periods may result in oral thrush or a yeast infection. Contact your doctor if you notice white patches in your mouth or a change in vaginal discharge.

This medication may rarely make your blood sugar rise, which can cause or worsen diabetes. Tell your doctor right away if you have symptoms of high blood sugar such as increased thirst/urination. If you already have diabetes, check your blood sugar regularly as directed and share the results with your doctor. Your doctor may need to adjust your diabetes medication, exercise program, or diet.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including unusual tiredness, swelling ankles/feet, unusual weight gain, vision problems, easy bruising/bleeding, puffy face, unusual hair growth, mental/mood changes (such as depression, mood swings, agitation), muscle weakness/pain, thinning skin, slow wound healing, menstrual period changes, bone pain, seizures, symptoms of stomach/intestinal bleeding (such as stomach/abdominal pain, black/tarry stools, vomit that looks like coffee grounds).

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of side effects.

Cautions

Before taking hydrocortisone, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: eye disease (such as cataracts, glaucoma), heart problems (such as heart failure, recent heart attack), high blood pressure, liver disease, kidney disease, thyroid problems, diabetes, stomach/intestinal problems (such as diverticulitis, ulcer), brittle bones (osteoporosis), current/past infections (such as tuberculosis, positive tuberculosis test, herpes, fungal), bleeding problems, blood clots, mental/mood conditions (such as psychosis, anxiety, depression), low salts in the blood (such as low potassium or calcium), seizures.

This medicine may cause stomach bleeding. Daily use of alcohol while using this medicine may increase your risk of stomach bleeding. Limit alcoholic beverages. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

Using corticosteroid medications for a long time can make it more difficult for your body to respond to physical stress. Before having surgery or emergency treatment, or if you get a serious illness/injury, tell your doctor or dentist that you are using this medication or have used this medication within the past 12 months. Tell your doctor right away if you develop unusual/extreme tiredness or weight loss. If you will be using this medication for a long time, carry a warning card or medical ID bracelet that identifies your use of this medication.

This medication may mask signs of infection. It can make you more likely to get infections or may make current infections worse. Stay away from anyone who has an infection that may easily spread (such as chickenpox, COVID-19, measles, or flu). Talk to your doctor if you have been exposed to an infection or for more details.

Tell your healthcare professional that you are using hydrocortisone before having any immunizations/vaccinations. Avoid contact with people who have recently received live vaccines (such as a flu vaccine inhaled through the nose).

This medication may slow down a child’s growth if used for a long time. Consult the doctor or pharmacist for more details. See the doctor regularly so your child’s height and growth can be checked.

Older adults may be more sensitive to the effects of this drug, especially bone loss/pain, stomach/intestinal bleeding, and mental/mood changes (such as confusion).

During pregnancy, hydrocortisone should be used only when needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Infants born to mothers who have been using this medication for an extended period may have hormone problems. Tell your doctor right away if you notice symptoms such as nausea/vomiting that does not stop, severe diarrhea, or weakness in your newborn.

It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk. However, this drug is unlikely to harm a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Form and Strengths

Cortef is available in the following form and strengths:

• Cortef Scored Tablet:
  • 10 mg
  • 20 mg
• Hydrocortisone Tablet:
  • 5 mg

FAQ

What should I do if I miss a dose of Cortef?

If you miss a dose of Cortef, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.

Is it safe to use Cortef with other medications?

Cortef can interact with other medications, so you should always tell your doctor about any other medications you are taking.

Can Cortef be used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?

Cortef may be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding only if needed and under the supervision of a healthcare provider.

How long will I need to use Cortef?

The duration of use of Cortef will depend on the condition being treated and other factors specific to each patient. You should follow your doctor’s instructions regarding the duration of treatment.

Can Cortef be used in children?

Cortef may be used in children, but the dosage and duration of treatment will depend on the age and weight of the child and the condition being treated.

Resources:

1. https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.1542.pdf
2. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2016/008697s032_33lbl.pdf
3. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-6730/cortef-oral/details