Hydrocortisone Flashcards
Hydrocortisone
Class
Corticosteroid and anti-inflammatory
Hydrocortisone
Description
Hydrocortisone is a potent corticosteroid with anti-inflammatory properties
Hydrocortisone
Presentation
Powder and solvent for solution for injection or infusion.
Vial containing off white powder and vial containing water for injections.
Prepare the solution aseptically by adding not more than 2ml of sterile water for injections to the contents of one 100mg vial, shake and withdraw for use.
Hydrocortisone
Administration
Intravenous (IV) Infusion
Intramuscular (IM)
The preferred route for initial emergency use is intravenous
Hydrocortisone
Indications
Severe or recurrent anaphylactic reactions
Asthma refractory to Salbutamol and Ipratropium Bromide.
Exacerbation of COPD
Adrenal Insuffiency
Hydrocortisone
Contraindications
No major contraindications in acute management of anaphylaxis
Hydrocortisone
Dosage
Adult:
Anaphylactic Reaction and COPD
200mg IM or slow IV (over 1 - 10mins) in 100ml NaCl
Asthma: 100mg Slow IV Infusion 100ml NaCl
Adrenal Insufficiency: 100mg IM/IV Infusion Slow 100ml NaCl
Paed:
Anaphylaxis and Asthma (IV only)
< 1 year - 25mg IM or slow IV (over 1 - 10mins)
1 to 5 years - 50mg IM or slow IV (over 1 - 10mins)
> 5 years - 100mg IM or slow IV (over 1 - 10mins)
Adrenal Insufficiency
6mth - ≤5yrs - 50mg IM or slow IV (over 1 - 10mins)
>5yrs - 100mg IM or slow IV (over 1 - 10mins)
Hydrocortisone
Pharmacology
Potent anti-inflammatory properties and inhibit many substances that cause inflammation.
the half life is 90 mins
Hydrocortisone
Side Effects
CCF, Hypertension, Abdominal distension, Vertigo, Headache, Nausea, Malaise Hiccups
Long Term SE:
Adrenal cortical atrophy develops during prolonged therapy and may persist for months after stopping treatment
Hydrocortisone
Additional Info
Intramuscular injection should avoid the deltoid area because of the possibility of tissue atrophy.
Dosage should not be less than 25mg
