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Hydrocortisone Cream: Uses, Dosage & Side Effects in Pakistan

Hydrocortisone Cream (Hydrocortisone) ke quick uses, dose guide, side effects, warnings, aur buying price range.

Compiled by the PakVita Editorial Team · AI-assisted drafting with editorial review · Sourced from DRAP, WHO, BNF · Last updated:

OTC

Form

CREAM

Strength

HYDROCORTISONE CREAM USP, 2.5%

Manufacturer

ZAFA Pharmaceutical Laboratories (Pvt.) Ltd.

Estimated price

Rs. 48 - 700

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What is Hydrocortisone Cream used for?

  • Eczema, including selected cases of atopic dermatitis
  • Contact dermatitis and other inflammatory dermatitis
  • Mild inflammation from insect bites and stings
Read full Uses guide →

How to take Hydrocortisone Cream?

Adult dose: Apply a thin layer once or twice daily as directed; use the smallest amount for the shortest recommended duration

Child dose: Use in children only on medical advice; the amount depends on age, treated surface area and the condition

Read full Dosage guide →

Important warnings

  • Do not use if you are allergic to hydrocortisone or any ingredient in the cream
  • Do not use on untreated bacterial, fungal or viral skin infections
  • Avoid acne, rosacea and perioral dermatitis unless specifically prescribed

Hydrocortisone Cream Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & Price in Pakistan

1. Quick Info (Mukhtasir Maloomat)

FieldDetails
Brand NameHydrocortisone
Generic NameHydrocortisone
StrengthHYDROCORTISONE CREAM USP, 2.5%
FormCream
Drug ClassTopical Corticosteroid
ManufacturerZAFA Pharmaceutical Laboratories (Pvt.) Ltd.
PrescriptionPrescription medicine — use only on medical advice
PriceRs. 180 - 350 approx
Packaging10 grams tube

2. What is Hydrocortisone Cream? (Hydrocortisone Cream kya hai)

Hydrocortisone is a low-potency topical corticosteroid used to reduce inflammation, redness and itching in steroid-responsive skin conditions. It is not appropriate for every rash, so the diagnosis, treated area and duration matter.

3. Uses (Fayde / Kis kaam aati hai)

  • Eczema, including selected cases of atopic dermatitis
  • Contact dermatitis and other inflammatory dermatitis
  • Mild inflammation from insect bites and stings
  • Selected allergic or inflammatory skin reactions
  • Seborrheic dermatitis in selected circumstances
  • Selected mild or sensitive-site psoriasis when prescribed
  • Certain inflammatory causes of anal or genital itching under medical advice

4. Who Should Use It (Kis ko istemal karni chahiye)

  • People with a steroid-responsive inflammatory skin condition when hydrocortisone is considered appropriate
  • Use on sensitive sites, including the face or genital area, should follow clinician or pharmacist advice

5. When NOT to Use (Kab nahi lagani chahiye)

  • If you are allergic to hydrocortisone or any ingredient in the cream
  • On untreated bacterial, fungal or viral skin infections
  • For acne, rosacea or perioral dermatitis unless specifically prescribed
  • On broken or ulcerated skin unless directed by a clinician
  • Around the eyes or eyelids unless specifically instructed

6. Dosage (Kitni lagani hai)

  • Apply only enough to cover the affected area in a thin layer
  • Hydrocortisone cream is commonly used once or twice daily, depending on the product and clinical advice
  • Use the smallest amount necessary for the shortest recommended duration; do not use more frequently, over larger areas, or for longer than advised
  • Apply it when you remember unless it is nearly time for the next application; do not apply extra cream to make up for a missed use

7. How to Use (Kaise lagani hai)

  • Wash your hands, apply a thin layer to the affected skin, and rub it in gently
  • Use it once or twice daily as directed by your doctor, pharmacist or product leaflet
  • Do not apply to unaffected skin or use under a dressing unless specifically advised
  • Wash your hands after application unless the hands are the area being treated

8. Best Time (Kab lagani chahiye)

  • Food and meal timing do not affect a topical hydrocortisone cream
  • Apply it at the times advised and keep applications reasonably consistent if using it more than once daily

9. Food Relation (Khane se taluq)

  • Hydrocortisone cream is applied to the skin, so taking it on an empty stomach or after food is not relevant

10. Warnings (Ihtiyat)

  • Avoid prolonged unsupervised use
  • Avoid the eyes and eyelids unless specifically prescribed
  • Do not use on untreated skin infections
  • Use extra caution on the face, skin folds and genital area because these sites can be more prone to steroid side effects

11. Precautions (Ahm ehtiyaat)

  • Use the minimum amount that controls symptoms
  • Do not routinely cover the treated area with an occlusive dressing unless advised
  • Store in a cool, dry place and keep out of the reach of children

12. Side Effects (Nuksanat)

  • Mild burning, stinging or irritation at the application site
  • Skin thinning
  • Stretch marks
  • Visible small blood vessels
  • Folliculitis or acne-like eruptions
  • Changes in skin pigmentation

13. Drug Interactions (Dawaon ke sath reaction)

  • Clinically important systemic interactions are unlikely with normal topical use
  • Tell your doctor or pharmacist about other medicated creams you use, especially other topical corticosteroids
  • Avoid layering multiple steroid products on the same area unless specifically advised

14. When to See Doctor (Kab doctor ke paas jayein)

  • The skin becomes increasingly red, painful, swollen or develops pus
  • The condition worsens or does not improve with treatment
  • Significant skin thinning or stretch marks develop
  • Severe or persistent irritation or burning occurs
  • The rash repeatedly returns after stopping treatment

15. Alternatives (Sasti Dusri Dawaein)

Brand NameCompanySalt (Generic)
Hydrocortisone CreamZAFA Pharmaceutical Laboratories (Pvt.) Ltd.HYDROCORTISONE CREAM USP, 2.5%
Alternative brandVariousHydrocortisone

16. Price in Pakistan (Price kitni hai)

Pack SizePrice (Approx)
10 grams tubeRs. 180 - 350 approx

(Note: Price depends on the pharmacy and pack size.)

17. FAQs (Aksar poochay jane walay sawalat)

Q: Hydrocortisone Cream kis kaam aati hai?

A: Hydrocortisone Cream is prescribed based on your doctor's assessment. See the uses section for more details.

Q: Hydrocortisone Cream kitne mg ki hoti hai?

A: Strengths vary by brand and form. Confirm the exact strength from the pack label and your doctor.

Q: Pakistan mein Hydrocortisone Cream ka price kya hai?

A: Prices vary by pharmacy and city. Verify the current rate at a local store or online listing.

Q: Kya Hydrocortisone Cream pregnancy mein safe hai?

A: Do not self-medicate during pregnancy. Always use this medicine only after consulting your doctor.

Q: Hydrocortisone Cream ke nuksanat kya hain?

A: Common side effects are usually mild. Contact your doctor immediately if you notice severe symptoms, and never exceed the prescribed dose.

18. Medical Review (Medical jaiza)

Compiled by the PakVita Editorial Team · AI-assisted drafting with editorial review · Sourced from DRAP, WHO, BNF · Last updated: 2025-10-10 Last Updated: 2026-04-23

19. Disclaimer (Zaroori tanbeeh)

The information on this page is for awareness only. It is not medical advice. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking any medicine. PakVita is not responsible for any harm.

Brand alternatives, same-class options, and other medicines used for the same conditions as Hydrocortisone Cream.

Frequently Asked Questions

Hydrocortisone Cream kis kaam aati hai?

Hydrocortisone Cream is prescribed based on your doctor's assessment. See the uses section for more details.

Hydrocortisone Cream kitne mg ki hoti hai?

Strengths vary by brand and form. Confirm the exact strength from the pack label and your doctor.

Pakistan mein Hydrocortisone Cream ka price kya hai?

Prices vary by pharmacy and city. Verify the current rate at a local store or online listing.

Kya Hydrocortisone Cream pregnancy mein safe hai?

Do not self-medicate during pregnancy. Always use this medicine only after consulting your doctor.

Hydrocortisone Cream ke nuksanat kya hain?

Common side effects are usually mild. Contact your doctor immediately if you notice severe symptoms, and never exceed the prescribed dose.

Sources

  1. DRAP Registered Product Data (Public Registry) — Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan
  2. WHO Model List of Essential Medicines, 23rd ed. (2023) — World Health Organization
  3. British National Formulary (BNF) — BMJ Group & Pharmaceutical Press

Medical disclaimer

This page is for educational use only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always confirm diagnosis, dose, and interactions with a qualified doctor or pharmacist before starting or changing any medicine.