Hydrocortison Léčiva (Hydrocortisone Acetate)

Hydrocortison Léčiva is indicated for several inflammatory skin conditions where reduction of redness, swelling, and itching is desired.

• Eczema (atopic dermatitis) affecting mild to moderate areas of the body.
• Contact dermatitis caused by irritants or allergens on the skin surface.
• Atopic dermatitis with acute flare‑ups requiring topical anti‑inflammatory therapy.
• Other inflammatory dermatoses such as seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis plaques, or lichen planus.
• Post‑procedure skin irritation where a short course of corticosteroid can limit inflammation.
• Localized chronic eczema on flexural areas that have not responded adequately to emollients alone.

• Hydrocortison Léčiva delivers hydrocortisone acetate to the skin, where the compound penetrates keratinocytes and binds intracellular glucocorticoid receptors. This receptor complex translocates to the nucleus and interacts with glucocorticoid response elements, altering transcription of multiple genes. The result is decreased synthesis of pro‑inflammatory cytokines, prostaglandins, and leukotrienes, while increasing production of anti‑inflammatory proteins such as annexin‑1, thereby reducing edema, erythema, and immune cell activation at the site of application.

Topical hydrocortisone acetate may cause local or systemic adverse reactions, most of which are mild and reversible when used as directed.

Common

• Mild burning, stinging, or itching at the application site.
• Transient skin dryness or peeling.
• Slight erythema or warmth that resolves within days.
• Development of a thin, striae‑like appearance with prolonged use.
• Temporary discoloration or hyperpigmentation of the treated area.

Serious

• Contact dermatitis or allergic reaction characterized by swelling, vesiculation, or severe itching.
• Suppression of the hypothalamic‑pituitary‑adrenal (HPA) axis leading to systemic corticosteroid effects.
• Secondary skin infection (bacterial, fungal, or viral) due to local immunosuppression.
• Delayed wound healing or ulceration at the site of application.

When using Hydrocortison Léčiva, several precautionary measures should be observed to minimize risks and ensure safe therapy.

• Avoid applying to broken, infected, or ulcerated skin unless directed by a physician.
• Limit use to the prescribed area and duration; prolonged exposure can increase systemic absorption.
• Do not use under occlusive dressings unless specifically advised, as this may enhance penetration.
• Caution in patients with diabetes, hypertension, or known sensitivity to corticosteroids.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should consult a healthcare professional before use.
• Children may be more susceptible to systemic effects; monitor closely.

Hydrocortison Léčiva can interact with other topical or systemic agents; awareness of these interactions helps prevent reduced efficacy or increased adverse effects.

Avoid

• Concurrent use with other potent topical corticosteroids on the same area, which may amplify systemic absorption.
• Application together with skin‑irritating chemicals (e.g., benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid) that can degrade the corticosteroid.

Use with caution

• Systemic corticosteroids or oral glucocorticoids, as combined therapy may suppress the hypothalamic‑pituitary‑adrenal axis.
• Antifungal or antibacterial creams containing macrolide antibiotics, which may increase local irritation.
• Immunosuppressive drugs (e.g., cyclosporine) that could enhance the risk of infection.
• Phototherapy or UV exposure, which may increase skin sensitivity when combined with corticosteroids.