Written by Dr. Feargus McConnell, BVSc on the Jan.16, 2024
Petdirect is dedicated to providing educational pet health content for pet parents. This article was written and reviewed by veterinary professionals to answer common questions about your pet’s medication. Our focus is on delivering unbiased information to help you understand how medication works, its potential side effects, and FAQs for your reference. Always administer medication directly as prescribed by your vet. This article shouldn’t take the place of advice from your vet.
Hydrocortisone tablets contain hydrocortisone aceponate as the active ingredient. Hydrocortisone can also be available in other forms, such as creams, shampoos or ointments. However the tablet form can be used for varying conditions to reduce inflammation such as managing allergies and skin disorders such as dermatitis. In addition, this medication is commonly prescribed to treat conditions such as Addisons’s disease (deficiency in adrenocortical hormones).
Hydrocortisone tablets, once ingested, are absorbed into the bloodstream, exerting a widespread effect on the body. They mimic natural corticosteroids from the pet's adrenal glands, crucial for managing inflammation and immune responses. The tablets primarily reduce inflammation, helping treat skin conditions. They also help modulate the immune system, beneficial in autoimmune diseases where the body's immune system is overactive. Lastly, in cases of adrenal insufficiency like Addison's disease, hydrocortisone serves as a hormone replacement, helping to maintain hormonal balance.
Always follow the directions on the label or as advised by your veterinarian. The tablet form of hydrocortisone is administered orally. Dose will vary depending on the condition that is being treated which will be determined by your veterinarian. However as a guide, once daily for Addison’s disease or twice daily for anti-inflammatory effects.
Missed Dose:
Generally, it's advised to administer the missed dose when remembered, unless it's close to the next scheduled dose. Avoid giving double doses.
Overdose:
Symptoms of overdose can include increased thirst or urination, vomiting or diarrhoea.
In case of suspected overdose, seek immediate veterinary care or contact the New Zealand National Poisons Centre at www.poisons.co.nz/animal-helpline/ or 0800 869 738.
Hydrocortisone should be used in caution with pets with diabetes, infections, stomach ulcers, heart failure, kidney disease. It should not be given to pets currently being treated with NSAIDs. Inform your vet of all medications and supplements your pet is taking.
As hydrocortisone belongs to the glucocorticoid class there are short term and long term side effects that could occur:
Contact your vet if you observe any of the above side effects.
Hydrocortisone should be stored at a controlled room temperature and out of direct sunlight. Keep it tightly closed in its original container and out of reach of children and pets.
Pet’s receiving hydrocortisone long term should be closely monitored and regular vet visits may be required.
Can I use human hydrocortisone based products on my dog or cat?
Can hydrocortisone interact with other medications my pet is taking?
How long does it typically take to see improvement in my pet's condition after starting hydrocortisone treatment?
Hydrocortisone tablets can be an effective treatment for managing a wide range of health issues in pets. Hydrocortisone affects multiple body systems and therefore it is important to monitor your pet closely for side effects. We hope this article provides a clear understanding of hydrocortisone for your pet.