💉 Hydrocortisone Powder for Injection 100 mg
📘 Description:
Hydrocortisone sodium succinate (powder for injection) is a systemic corticosteroid used to manage severe inflammation, adrenal insufficiency, and shock. Once reconstituted, it is administered intravenously (IV) or intramuscularly (IM).
- Form: Sterile lyophilized powder for injection
- Strength: 100 mg/vial
- Common Brand Names: Solu-Cortef®, Hydrocort®, etc.
- Type: Glucocorticoid, short-acting
🩺 Prescription / Medical Uses:
| Condition | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Adrenal crisis / Addisonian crisis | Life-saving cortisol replacement |
| Septic shock | Support in vasopressor-resistant cases |
| Severe allergic reactions / anaphylaxis | Adjunct after epinephrine |
| Autoimmune flare-ups (e.g., lupus, RA) | Inflammation control |
| Cerebral edema | In selected cases |
| Asthma or COPD exacerbation | For rapid relief of inflammation |
| Surgical stress prophylaxis | In adrenal-insufficient patients |
✅ Advantages:
- Rapid onset of action when given IV
- Essential in adrenal insufficiency emergencies
- Can be used in stress-dose protocols
- Easy reconstitution and dosing flexibility
- Potent anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effect
⚠️ Precautions:
- Avoid abrupt withdrawal in long-term users
- Use cautiously in:
- Diabetics (raises blood sugar)
- Hypertension
- Infections (may suppress immune response)
- Peptic ulcer disease
- Renal or hepatic impairment
- Monitor for signs of adrenal suppression
- Use with caution in pregnancy (Category C)
📦 Storage:
- Store below 25°C (77°F)
- Protect from light and moisture
- Use reconstituted solution immediately or within a few hours if not preservative-free
🧠 Patient Advice:
- Used only under medical supervision
- Wear medical alert ID if chronically steroid-dependent
- Inform healthcare providers before any surgery/procedure
- Report signs of infection, GI bleeding, or mood changes