What you need to know about hydrocortisone (Hydrocortisone Oral Granules)

Has your child or a family member been prescribed Hydrocortisone by a doctor? Especially the granule type. You may be a little worried when you hear this name. "What is this medicine? What does it do? How should I use it?" Many questions may come to mind. Don't be afraid of anything. Today, we will talk about this medicine called Hydrocortisone Oral Granules in a very simple way that you can understand.

Simply put, what is hydrocortisone?

Simply put, hydrocortisone is a synthetic medication that is very similar to the hormone cortisol that our bodies produce naturally. These belong to a group of drugs called steroids.

Now you're probably thinking, "What is this cortisol?" Imagine, you suddenly feel a lot of pressure, stress, or you develop a serious illness or an accident. At times like these, cortisol is the main hormone that our body uses to fight against that situation. In other words, it's like our body's natural 'stress fighter'.

Some people, especially young children, do not produce the necessary amount of this cortisol hormone in their bodies. In medical terms, we call this condition adrenal insufficiency . In such cases, hydrocortisone is given externally to restore the low amount of cortisol in the body. In other words, this is done to compensate for a deficiency in the body.

Things to tell your doctor before taking this medicine

It is very important to talk openly with your doctor before starting this medication for you or your child. Be sure to tell your doctor if you or your child have any of the following conditions:

• If you have had an allergic reaction to hydrocortisone or other corticosteroids .
• If you or someone in your family has diabetes .
• If you have a condition called Cushing's syndrome (a condition associated with elevated cortisol levels in the body).
• If you have glaucoma, a disease of increased pressure in the eye.
• If you have high blood pressure .
• If you have an existing infection (such as fever, cough, cold).
• If you have liver disease .
• If you have a mental health problem (e.g. depression).
• If you have a bone thinning disease such as osteoporosis .
• If you have stomach or intestinal problems (e.g. gastritis, ulcers).
• If you are going to have surgery soon.
• If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant .
• If the baby is breastfed .

How exactly do you use this medicine?

This is the biggest problem that many people have. Although Hydrocortisone Oral Granules come in the form of a capsule, it is never a good idea to swallow it.

Here's how it works:

1. Open the pods one by one: Take the pod and open it by twisting it in both directions.

2. Remove the seeds inside: When you open the pod, you will see a lot of very small, white seeds (granules) inside. We only need those seeds.

3. Put it in your mouth and drink: Place these seeds directly on your tongue. Then drink a glass of water or milk.

4. Do not chew or crush: The most important thing is, do not chew or crush these seeds. They should be consumed as is.

If you give it to a small baby...

When giving to newborns or young children, it is difficult to put these seeds directly into their mouths. In such cases, you can mix these seeds with a little breast milk or formula and give them to the child with a spoon. But after mixing them, do not leave them for too long, give them quickly.

Most importantly: It is very important to take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor, at the same time every day. Do not stop taking the medicine until your doctor tells you to.

What to do if you miss a dose of medication?

Please don't worry about it. Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the scheduled time. Never take a double dose.

What if I take too much medicine?

If you have any suspicion that you have taken more medicine than you think, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately . Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.

Are there any side effects with this medicine?

Like any medicine, hydrocortisone can cause side effects in some people. However, not everyone gets them. The important thing is to be aware of these symptoms and take action quickly if they occur.

Other things to be careful about when taking this medicine

• Do not stop suddenly: This is the most important thing. Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly for any reason without consulting your doctor. Doing so can have serious consequences. If you do stop taking the medicine, do so under the supervision of your doctor, and gradually reduce the dose.
• Be careful of infections: Your immune system may be slightly weakened while taking this medicine. Therefore, stay away from people who are sick. If you develop symptoms like fever or cold, do not self-medicate and see a doctor.
• Tell your doctor about other medications: Tell your doctor if you are taking other medications for diabetes, blood thinners, seizures , fungal infections, or pain relievers (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen while taking this medicine. These medications can interact with each other. Give your doctor a list of all medications and vitamins you take.

Hydrocortisone, cortisol, steroids, adrenal gland, drug side effects, giving medicine to children, Adrenal insufficiency