Tablet

Pfizer

Cortef (hydrocortisone) is an anti-inflammatory and immune suppressant. It helps to reduce swelling, redness, itching, and allergic reactions.

Do not take Cortef (hydrocortisone) if you are allergic to any ingredient in Cortef (hydrocortisone) or to similar medications.

Before using Cortef (hydrocortisone), tell your health care provider about any of the following: if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding if you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine if you are taking blood thinners if you have stomach problems if you have peptic ulcers if you have any other medical condition like liver or kidney function impairment or heart problem

Do not suddenly stop taking Cortef (hydrocortisone). You may need to gradually reduce the dose, so that your body can adjust. Follow the advice of your health care professional.

Other: None

How much medicine you take and how often you take it depend on many factors, including the condition being treated and the age and weight of the patient. If you have any questions about the amount and/or frequency of Cortef (hydrocortisone) you are taking, talk with your health care provider. Do not stop taking Cortef (hydrocortisone) without checking with your health care provider. Patients with previous medical conditions should talk with their health care provider before taking Cortef (hydrocortisone). Do not take more medicine than prescribed unless advised to do so by your health care provider. Do not take any other over-the-counter or prescription medications without talking with your health care provider. If a dose is missed, take it as soon as possible. If several hours have passed or if it is nearing time for the next dose, do not double the dose to catch up, unless advised by your health care provider. If more than one dose is missed, contact your health care provider or pharmacist. If you are taking Cortef (hydrocortisone) for a long time, carry an identification card with your name, the type and dose of Cortef (hydrocortisone), and your prescriber's name and address. Do not suddenly stop taking Cortef (hydrocortisone). You may need to gradually reduce the dose, so that your body can adjust. Follow the advice of your prescriber or health care professional. If you take Cortef (hydrocortisone) for a long time, avoid contact with people who have an infection. You may be at an increased risk from infection while taking Cortef (hydrocortisone). Tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are exposed to anyone with measles or chickenpox, or if you develop sores or blisters that do not heal properly. People who are taking certain dosages of Cortef (hydrocortisone) may need to avoid immunization with certain vaccines or may need to have changes in their vaccination schedules to ensure adequate protection from certain diseases. Make sure to tell your prescriber or health care professional that you are taking Cortef (hydrocortisone) before receiving any vaccine. If you are diabetic, Cortef (hydrocortisone) can affect your blood sugar. Check with your prescriber or health care professional if you need help adjusting the dose of your diabetic medicine. If you take Cortef (hydrocortisone) every day, you may need to watch your diet. Your body can also lose potassium while you take Cortef (hydrocortisone). Ask your prescriber or health care professional about your diet, especially about your salt intake. If you are going to have surgery tell your prescriber or health care professional that you are taking hydrocortisone, or have taken it within the last 12 months. Alcohol can increase the risk of getting serious side effects while you are taking hydrocortisone. Avoid alcoholic drinks. Elderly patients have an increased risk of side effects from Cortef (hydrocortisone).

Store Cortef (hydrocortisone) at room temperature in a cool dry place, protect from moisture, heat and light. Keep all medicines out of the reach of children and pets. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.