What is this medicine?

HYDROCORTISONE; LIDOCAINE (hye droe KOR ti sone; LYE doe kane) is a corticosteroid combined with an anesthetic pain reliever. It is used to decrease swelling, itching, and pain that is caused by minor skin irritations or hemorrhoids.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for external use only. Do not take by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Wash your hands before and after use. Do not cover with a bandage or dressing unless your doctor or health care professional tells you yo. Use your medicine at regular intervals. Do not use it more often than directed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

• burning feeling on the skin

• confusion

• dizziness

• infection

• lack of healing of skin conditions

• painful, red, pus-filled blisters in hair follicles

• palpitations

• thinning of the skin

• tremor

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• dry skin, irritation

• unusual increased growth of hair on the face or body

What may interact with this medicine?

• certain medicines for irregular heart beat

Do not use any other skin products on the same area of skin without asking your doctor or health care professional.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• diabetes

• large areas of burned or damaged skin

• liver disease

• skin infection (especially a virus infection such as chickenpox, cold sores, or herpes

• skin wasting or thinning

• tuberculosis

• an unusual or allergic reaction to hydrocortisone, lidocaine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Tell your doctor or health care professional if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse.

Do not get this medicine in your eyes. If you do, rinse out with plenty of cool tap water.

This medicine can make certain skin conditions worse. Only use it for conditions for which your doctor or health care professional has prescribed.

Be careful to avoid injury to the treated skin while the area is numb and you are not aware of pain.