Hydrocortisone Viatris 4 and 20 (formerly Hydrocortisone Mylan) (Hydrocortisone)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Hydrocortisone Viatris 4 and 20 (formerly Hydrocortisone Mylan) Used For?
Hydrocortisone Viatris is a medication that contains hydrocortisone, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands. It is used to replace the hydrocortisone that the body does not produce adequately, particularly in conditions like Addison's disease.
Primary Uses
It is primarily used to treat adrenal insufficiency and related conditions.
How It Works
Hydrocortisone works by mimicking the effects of cortisol, helping to regulate metabolism, immune response, and stress response.
Good to know: Hydrocortisone Viatris is not considered addictive.
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How to Take Hydrocortisone Viatris 4 and 20 (formerly Hydrocortisone Mylan)
Follow your doctor's instructions on how to take Hydrocortisone Viatris. It is important to take the medication as prescribed.
Dosage Instructions
Dosage varies per patient. Your doctor will determine the number of tablets to take daily based on your condition and any other medications you may be using.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's close to your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.
Important: Never take a double dose to compensate for a missed one.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- Increased appetite
- Weight gain
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Insomnia
- Skin rashes
- Thin skin
- Easy bruising
- Facial redness
- Increased body hair
- Increased sweating
- Irregular menstrual periods
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Severe stomach pain with nausea and vomiting
- Seizures or loss of consciousness
- Weakness or muscle loss
- Slow healing wounds
- Increased thirst and urination
- Severe indigestion
- Signs of infection (fever, chills, sore throat)
- Blurred vision
- Swelling in face or limbs
- Confusion or mood changes
Impulse Control Issues
Long-term use may lead to impulse control problems.
Important Warnings
There are several important warnings to consider when using Hydrocortisone Viatris.
Who Should Not Take Hydrocortisone Viatris 4 and 20 (formerly Hydrocortisone Mylan)
Do not use if you are allergic to hydrocortisone or any of its ingredients.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Discuss any history of infections, high blood pressure, heart problems, kidney or liver issues, diabetes, or other serious health conditions with your doctor.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Consult your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, as hydrocortisone can affect your baby.
Elderly Patients With Dementia: Elderly patients may have an increased risk of side effects.
Drug Interactions
Certain medications may interact with Hydrocortisone Viatris.
Grapefruit interaction: Grapefruit may affect how this medication works.
- Oral contraceptives
- Antiepileptic drugs (e.g., phenytoin, barbiturates)
- Rifampicin
- Diuretics
- Digoxin
- Aspirin
- Live vaccines
- Insulin or oral diabetes medications
Alcohol & Driving
Caution is advised when consuming alcohol or driving while on this medication.
Alcohol
Alcohol may increase the risk of side effects.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Be cautious as this medication may affect your ability to drive.
Temperature Regulation
Hydrocortisone may affect your body's ability to regulate temperature.
Storage
Store Hydrocortisone Viatris in a cool, dry place below 30°C, and keep it in its original bottle until needed.
Overdose Information
In case of overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms may include weakness, dizziness, nausea, and blurred vision.
Frequently Asked Questions
The onset of action can vary, but you may start to feel the effects within a few hours.
Yes, it is recommended to take the tablets with food or a glass of milk to reduce stomach upset.
No, there is no evidence that this medication is addictive.
Stopping suddenly may cause withdrawal symptoms; consult your doctor for a gradual reduction plan.
It is advisable to limit alcohol consumption as it may increase side effects.
Increased appetite and weight gain are common side effects.
Elderly patients should use this medication with caution due to an increased risk of side effects.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, but skip it if it's almost time for your next dose.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.