Hydrocortisone + Lidocaine

• Inflammatory Skin Disorders
• Eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis, and allergic reactions
• Localized Pain and Pruritus
• Relief of pain, itching, or discomfort associated with inflammatory skin conditions
• Off-label / Clinically Accepted Uses
• Post-procedural skin irritation
• Minor burns or insect bites causing inflammation and discomfort

Topical use only. Not for systemic administration.

• Adults and Pediatrics (>12 years)
• Apply a thin layer to the affected area 2–3 times daily
• Children (<12 years)
• Use with caution under medical supervision; avoid prolonged use
• Special Populations
• Avoid large-area application in elderly or patients with renal/hepatic impairment due to systemic absorption risk
• Duration
• Generally limited to 7 days unless directed by a healthcare professional

Hydrocortisone is a glucocorticoid that binds to cytoplasmic glucocorticoid receptors, modulating gene transcription to reduce production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, inflammatory mediators, and immune cell recruitment. Lidocaine is a local anesthetic that stabilizes neuronal membranes by inhibiting voltage-gated sodium channels, preventing initiation and conduction of nerve impulses. Together, the combination provides anti-inflammatory effects from hydrocortisone and rapid analgesic relief from lidocaine at the site of application.

• Absorption: Minimal systemic absorption when applied topically; increased with damaged or inflamed skin
• Distribution: Lidocaine may distribute locally; systemic levels usually low
• Metabolism: Lidocaine metabolized hepatically via CYP1A2 and CYP3A4; hydrocortisone metabolized in the liver
• Excretion: Lidocaine metabolites excreted in urine; hydrocortisone metabolites primarily renal
• Onset: Lidocaine effect within minutes; hydrocortisone effect within hours
• Half-life: Lidocaine ~1.5–2 hours systemically; hydrocortisone ~1.5–2 hours (biologic effects longer)

• Pregnancy: Category C; topical use is generally considered low-risk if applied in small amounts. Avoid large areas or prolonged use.
• Lactation: Minimal systemic absorption; considered compatible with breastfeeding, but avoid direct application to infant-contact areas.

• Primary therapeutic class: Corticosteroid + Local Anesthetic
• Subclass: Glucocorticoid (Hydrocortisone) / Amide-type local anesthetic (Lidocaine)

• Known hypersensitivity to hydrocortisone, lidocaine, or any formulation excipients
• Open or infected wounds (unless directed for specific therapy)
• History of severe lidocaine allergy or systemic local anesthetic reaction

• High-risk patients: Children, elderly, pregnant or breastfeeding women
• Systemic absorption: Avoid applying over large areas, broken skin, or under occlusive dressings
• Skin atrophy: Prolonged corticosteroid use may cause thinning of skin
• Sensitization: Watch for contact dermatitis or allergic reactions
• Avoid mucous membranes: Do not use in eyes, mouth, or vagina unless specifically formulated

• Common
• Mild burning, stinging, or itching at application site
• Dryness, redness, or local irritation
• Less common / rare
• Skin atrophy, telangiectasia, striae
• Allergic contact dermatitis
• Systemic effects (rare, with prolonged use) including adrenal suppression or lidocaine toxicity

• Other topical corticosteroids or anesthetics: Additive effects or increased absorption
• Systemic CYP3A4 inhibitors: May increase lidocaine systemic exposure if applied extensively
• Avoid concomitant potent immunosuppressive therapy unless supervised

• Current dermatology guidelines recommend short-term, limited-area use to minimize systemic corticosteroid or lidocaine exposure
• Avoid continuous occlusive dressings unless clinically indicated
• Emphasis on patient education regarding duration and area of application

• Store at 20°C to 25°C (room temperature)
• Protect from light and moisture
• Keep in a tight, well-closed container
• Do not freeze; discard if discoloration or separation occurs