Locoid Lotion

Generic name: hydrocortisone topical [ hye-droe-KOR-ti-sone ]
Brand names: Ala-Cort, Beta HC, Caldecort, Cortizone-10, Dermtex HC, ... show all 14 brands Gynecort Maximum Strength, Locoid Lotion, Pandel, Proctocort, Sarnol-HC, Vanicream HC, Cortizone-5, Itch-X Lotion, Locoid
Drug class: Topical steroids

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Dec 21, 2023. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is Locoid Lotion?

Locoid Lotion (for the skin) is a steroid medicine that is used to treat inflammation and itching caused by skin conditions that respond to steroid medication.

There are many brands and forms of hydrocortisone topical available. Not all brands are listed on this medication guide.

Locoid Lotion may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Locoid Lotion side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives, difficult breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Side effects can occur if your skin absorbs topical steroid medicine. Tell your doctor if you have:

• swelling, weight gain (especially in your face or your upper back and torso);

• thinning skin, stretch marks, acne, increased facial hair;

• irregular menstrual periods, changes in sexual function; or

• memory problems, feeling irritable.

Locoid Lotion may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:

• worsening of your skin condition;

• pain, tenderness, headache;

• blurred vision, eye pain or redness, seeing halos around lights;

• high blood sugar--increased thirst, increased urination, dry mouth, fruity breath odor; or

• increased adrenal gland hormones--hunger, weight gain, swelling, skin discoloration, slow wound healing, sweating, acne, increased body hair, tiredness, mood changes, muscle weakness, missed menstrual periods, sexual changes.

Children can absorb larger amounts of Locoid Lotion through the skin and may be more likely to have side effects.

Common side effects of Locoid Lotion may include:

• skin redness, itching, stinging, rash;

• redness or crusting around your hair follicles;

• burning, dryness, or other irritation of treated skin;

• rash, redness, itching, or irritation around your mouth;

• appearance and color changes in treated skin;

• signs of skin infection (swelling, redness, warmth, oozing); o

• numbness, tingling, or burning pain.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

Use only as directed. Tell your doctor if you use other medicines or have other medical conditions or allergies.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use Locoid Lotion if you are allergic to it.

Tell your doctor if you have or have ever had:

• any type of skin infection;

• a skin reaction to any steroid medicine;

• cataract or glaucoma;

• thinning of the skin where you will apply Locoid Lotion;

• problems with your adrenal gland; or

• liver disease.

Steroid medicines can increase the glucose (sugar) levels in your blood or urine. Tell your doctor if you have diabetes.

It is not known if Locoid Lotion will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

Ask a doctor if it is safe to breastfeed while using this medicine.

Do not give this medicine to a child without medical advice.

How should I use Locoid Lotion?

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

Do not take by mouth. Topical medicine is for use only on the skin.

Wash your hands before and after applying this medicine, unless you are using it to treat a hand condition.

Apply a thin layer of medicine to the affected skin and rub it in gently. Do not apply this medicine over a large area of skin unless your doctor has told you to.

Do not cover treated skin with a bandage unless your doctor tells you to.

Shake hydrocortisone lotion and spray well just before each use.

If you are treating the diaper area, do not use plastic pants or tight-fitting diapers.

You may need medical tests to be sure this medicine is not causing harmful effects.

You may need blood or urine tests while using this medicine.

Stop using hydrocortisone and call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after using this medicine for 7 days, or if your symptoms get worse or get better and then come back in a few days.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not freeze. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.

Store the foam canister away from open flame or high heat. Do not puncture or burn an empty canister.

Related/similar drugs

prednisone, hydroxyzine, fluticasone nasal, cetirizine, methotrexate, dexamethasone, diphenhydramine, hydrocortisone topical, lidocaine topical, promethazine

What happens if I miss a dose?

Apply the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not apply two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if anyone has accidentally swallowed the medicine.

High doses or long-term use of Locoid Lotion can lead to thinning skin, easy bruising, changes in body fat (especially in your face, neck, back, and waist), increased acne or facial hair, menstrual problems, impotence, or loss of interest in sex.

What should I avoid while using hydrocortisone topical?

Do not use Locoid Lotion to treat any skin condition that has not been checked by your doctor.

Avoid applying Locoid Lotion to the skin of your face, underarms, or groin area unless your doctor has told you to.

Avoid using other medications on the areas you treat with Locoid Lotion, unless you doctor tells you to.

Do not get Locoid Lotion in your eyes. If contact does occur, rinse with water.

What other drugs will affect Locoid Lotion?

Medicine used on the skin is not likely to be affected by other drugs you use, but many drugs can interact. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

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