Introduction

Hydrocortisone, sold under a number of brand names, is the name for the hormone cortisol when supplied as a medication. Uses include conditions such as adrenocortical insufficiency, adrenogenital syndrome, high blood calcium, thyroiditis, rheumatoid arthritis, dermatitis, asthma, and COPD. It is the treatment of choice for adrenocortical insufficiency. It can be given by mouth, topically, or by injection. Stopping treatment after long-term use should be done slowly.

Side effects may include mood changes, increased risk of infection, and swelling. With long-term use common side effects include osteoporosis, upset stomach, physical weakness, easy bruising, and yeast infections. While used, it is unclear if it is safe during pregnancy. It works as an antiinflammatory and by immune suppression.

Hydrocortisone was discovered in 1955. It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines, the most effective and safe medicines needed in a health system. It is available as a generic medication.

Hydrocortisone is the pharmaceutical term for cortisol used in oral administration, intravenous injection, or topical application. It is used as an immunosuppressive drug, given by injection in the treatment of severe allergic reactions such as anaphylaxis and angioedema, in place of prednisolone in patients needing steroid treatment but unable to take oral medication, and perioperatively in patients on long-term steroid treatment to prevent Addisonian crisis. It may also be injected into inflamed joints resulting from diseases such as gout.

Function

• As an anti-inflammatory medication.  Hydrocortisone Sodium Succinate relieves inflammation in various parts of the body.
• To treat or prevent allergic reactions.
• As treatment of certain kinds of autoimmune diseases, skin conditions, asthma and other lung conditions.
• As treatment for a variety of cancers, such as leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma.  
• To treat nausea and vomiting associated with some chemotherapy drugs.
• Used to stimulate appetite in cancer patients with severe appetite problems.
• The lotion (topical) is used in treatment of allergic skin reactions, and relieves symptoms of itching, redness, and swelling. 
• Also used to replace steroids in conditions of adrenal insufficiency (low production of needed steroids produced by the adrenal glands).

Application

Hydrocortisone sodium succinate aka hydrocortisone sodium succinate; hydrogen succinate, chemical name is 11beta,17 - two hydroxy - 21 - (3 - carboxyl - 1 - hydroxy propyl methoxy ) pregnancy steroid - 4 - Xi - 3,20- two ketone, white or almost white loose lump content. Hydrocortisone sodium succinate is hydrocortisone salt compounds. With anti-inflammatory, anti-allergy and suppression of the immune and other pharmacological effects.