Hydrocortisone Orifarm (Hydrocortisone)

Hydrocortisone Orifarm is indicated for the topical management of several common dermatologic disorders.

• Mild to moderate eczema (atopic dermatitis)
• Contact dermatitis caused by irritants or allergens
• Psoriasis plaques that respond to low‑potency corticosteroids
• Localized allergic skin reactions such as hives or insect bites
• Seborrheic dermatitis affecting scalp or facial areas
• It may also be employed to relieve itching, redness, and swelling associated with these conditions.

• Hydrocortisone exerts its anti‑inflammatory effect by diffusing across cell membranes and binding to intracellular glucocorticoid receptors. The drug‑receptor complex translocates to the nucleus, where it interacts with glucocorticoid response elements and modulates gene transcription. This results in decreased synthesis of pro‑inflammatory cytokines, prostaglandins, and leukotrienes, and suppresses the activity of immune cells such as T‑lymphocytes and macrophages, thereby reducing skin inflammation.

Topical hydrocortisone may cause local or systemic adverse reactions, although most users experience only mild, reversible effects.

Common

• Mild skin irritation or burning sensation at the application site
• Pruritus or itching that may persist
• Dryness or peeling of the treated skin
• Slight erythema or redness

Serious

• Contact dermatitis or allergic reaction to the formulation
• Skin atrophy or thinning with prolonged use
• Development of striae (stretch marks) on the treated area
• Secondary infection of the skin, including bacterial or fungal overgrowth
• Systemic absorption leading to hypothalamic‑pituitary‑adrenal (HPA) axis suppression
• Hyperglycemia in patients with diabetes

Before using Hydrocortisone Orifarm, certain precautions should be considered to minimize risks and ensure appropriate therapy.

• Avoid application on broken, infected, or ulcerated skin unless directed by a clinician.
• Do not use under occlusive dressings unless specifically prescribed, as this can increase absorption.
• Limit treatment duration, especially on sensitive areas such as the face, groin, or axillae.
• Consult a healthcare professional before use in children, pregnant or breastfeeding individuals.
• Discontinue if signs of skin thinning, worsening rash, or systemic effects appear.
• Be cautious when treating large body surface areas to prevent systemic exposure.

Hydrocortisone applied to the skin can interact with other topical agents or systemic medications that affect corticosteroid metabolism or immune function.

Avoid

• Concurrent use of other potent topical corticosteroids on the same area.
• Application together with topical calcineurin inhibitors (e.g., tacrolimus, pimecrolimus) without medical supervision.

Use with caution

• Systemic glucocorticoids, which may increase the risk of HPA‑axis suppression.
• Antifungal or antibacterial creams that could alter skin barrier and affect absorption.
• Non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) applied topically, as they may increase local irritation.