Key Facts
- Drug Class
- Mild corticosteroid
- Prescription
- Over the counter
- NAFDAC Status
- Check Registration
- Forms
- Cream, Ointment, Tablet, Injection
- Price Range
- ₦200 - ₦5,000
- WHO Essential
- Yes
What is Hydrocortisone?
Hydrocortisone is the mildest topical corticosteroid available in Nigeria and one of the most commonly used medications for treating inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema, contact dermatitis, insect bites, and heat rash. Hydrocortisone is a synthetic form of cortisol, a hormone naturally produced by the adrenal glands in the body. When applied to the skin as a cream or ointment, it works by reducing inflammation, redness, itching, and swelling. It does this by suppressing the release of inflammatory chemicals in the skin, calming the immune response that causes the uncomfortable symptoms. Because hydrocortisone is classified as a mild (Group VII) topical corticosteroid, it is considered safe enough for over-the-counter sale in Nigeria for short-term use, and it is widely available in pharmacies from Ikeja in Lagos to Wuse in Abuja and Sabon Gari in Kano.
In Nigeria, hydrocortisone cream is a versatile medication used across all age groups for a wide variety of skin complaints. The hot, humid climate that characterises much of the country means that heat rash (prickly heat) and insect bite reactions are everyday occurrences, and hydrocortisone cream provides quick relief from the associated itching and inflammation. Eczema is increasingly recognised as a significant skin condition in Nigeria, affecting both children and adults, and hydrocortisone is often the first-line topical treatment recommended by dermatologists and general practitioners. Contact dermatitis from detergents, soaps, cheap jewellery, and occupational chemicals is also common, particularly among market women, mechanics, hairdressers, and cleaners in cities like Lagos, Ibadan, and Port Harcourt. Hydrocortisone cream is also an important treatment for nappy rash in infants when the rash is not caused by fungal infection.
While hydrocortisone is safe and effective when used correctly, it is essential to address a significant public health concern in Nigeria: the widespread misuse of steroid creams for skin lightening and bleaching. Many Nigerians, particularly women, use potent topical steroids — sometimes including hydrocortisone but more commonly stronger steroids like betamethasone and clobetasol — to lighten their skin complexion. This practice is extremely dangerous and can lead to permanent skin damage including thinning of the skin, stretch marks, easy bruising, rebound darkening, acne, and increased susceptibility to infections. NAFDAC and Nigerian dermatologists have repeatedly warned against this practice. Hydrocortisone itself is available in Nigeria as a cream in 1% and 2.5% strengths (topical), as well as in tablet form (10mg) and injection form (100mg) for systemic use in more serious conditions such as adrenal insufficiency and severe allergic reactions, though the oral and injectable forms require a prescription.
What is Hydrocortisone used for?
In Nigeria, Hydrocortisone is commonly used for:
- Eczema (atopic dermatitis) — reducing itching, redness, and inflammation in mild to moderate flare-ups, commonly seen in Nigerian children and adults
- Contact dermatitis — skin irritation and rash caused by contact with detergents, soaps, latex, nickel jewellery, cement, and other irritants common in Nigerian workplaces and homes
- Insect bite reactions — calming the itching, redness, and swelling from mosquito bites, ant bites, bee stings, and other insect encounters that are frequent in Nigeria
- Heat rash (prickly heat/miliaria) — soothing the itchy, prickly rash that develops in hot, sweaty conditions, extremely common in Nigeria's tropical climate
- Nappy rash — treating mild inflammatory nappy rash in infants (only when not caused by Candida fungal infection, which requires an antifungal instead)
- Mild allergic skin reactions — localised hives, urticaria, or rash from mild allergic triggers
Dosage
IMPORTANT
Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions. The information below is for general reference only.
Adults
Apply a thin layer of hydrocortisone 1% cream to the affected area of skin one to two times daily. Gently rub the cream into the skin until it is absorbed. Use the smallest amount necessary to cover the affected area — a thin film is sufficient. For most skin conditions, treatment should be limited to seven days of continuous use. If the condition has not improved after seven days, stop the cream and consult a doctor. For more persistent conditions like chronic eczema, a doctor may recommend using hydrocortisone for longer periods with breaks (for example, applying for five days then stopping for two days). The 2.5% cream may be prescribed for more stubborn areas. Do not use hydrocortisone cream on the face for more than five consecutive days unless directed by a doctor.
Children
Hydrocortisone 1% cream can be used in children aged 10 years and older following the same directions as adults. For children under 10 years, including infants, hydrocortisone cream should only be used under the guidance of a doctor or pharmacist. When used on children, apply the thinnest possible layer and use for the shortest time necessary. Children's skin is thinner than adult skin and absorbs more of the steroid, so there is a greater risk of side effects with prolonged use. For nappy rash, apply a thin layer to the affected area at each nappy change, but limit use to a maximum of seven days. Do not use under occlusive nappy covers for prolonged periods.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment is needed for elderly patients using topical hydrocortisone. However, elderly skin tends to be thinner and more fragile, making it more susceptible to the skin-thinning effects of corticosteroids. Use the lowest effective strength for the shortest possible time. Monitor the skin carefully for signs of thinning, bruising, or stretch marks.
Always wash and dry the affected area before applying hydrocortisone cream. Apply a thin film — using too much does not speed up healing and increases the risk of side effects. Do not use hydrocortisone cream on broken or infected skin, on open wounds, or on areas of active fungal infection (use an antifungal like clotrimazole instead). If you are using a moisturiser (emollient) alongside hydrocortisone, apply the moisturiser first and wait at least 10 to 15 minutes before applying the hydrocortisone cream. Do not use hydrocortisone cream on the face, groin, or armpits for extended periods without medical supervision, as the skin in these areas is thinner and more sensitive.
Side Effects
Common side effects
- •Mild burning or stinging sensation at the application site — usually temporary and settles quickly
- •Skin dryness at the treated area
- •Mild skin irritation or redness
- •Itching at the application site (may occur temporarily before improving)
- •Slight lightening of the skin at the application site with prolonged use
Serious side effects — seek medical help immediately
- Skin thinning (atrophy) — the skin becomes thin, fragile, and transparent with prolonged or excessive use. This is one of the most important risks of steroid creams and can be irreversible.
- Stretch marks (striae) — permanent streaky marks on the skin, particularly in skin folds, the groin, armpits, and inner thighs
- Telangiectasia — visible small blood vessels (spider veins) appearing on the skin surface
- Steroid-induced acne or worsening of existing acne — particularly on the face
- Contact dermatitis — allergic reaction to hydrocortisone itself, causing worsening rash and irritation
- Adrenal suppression — extremely rare with topical use but possible if strong steroids are used over large body areas for prolonged periods, especially in children
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if your skin condition has not improved after seven days of using hydrocortisone cream, or if it worsens during treatment. Seek medical advice if you notice the skin becoming unusually thin, developing stretch marks, or showing visible blood vessels in the treated area. If the rash spreads, develops pus or crusting (signs of infection), or becomes increasingly painful, stop the hydrocortisone and see a doctor promptly — infected skin should not be treated with steroids alone. Consult a healthcare professional if you experience any signs of allergic reaction to the cream, such as increased redness, swelling, or blistering. In Nigeria, you can visit any registered pharmacy, primary healthcare centre, or dermatology clinic for assessment.
Warnings & Precautions
Do not take Hydrocortisone if you have:
- Do not apply to skin affected by untreated bacterial, fungal, or viral infections — hydrocortisone suppresses the immune response and can worsen infections such as ringworm, impetigo, cold sores, and chickenpox
- Do not use on open wounds, cuts, or ulcerated skin
- Do not use on the face for acne or rosacea — hydrocortisone can worsen these conditions
- Do not use for skin lightening or bleaching purposes — this is a dangerous misuse that causes serious skin damage
- Do not use if you have a known allergy to hydrocortisone or any other corticosteroid
Drug interactions
- •Other topical corticosteroids — do not layer multiple steroid creams on the same area, as this increases the risk of skin thinning and systemic absorption
- •Topical antifungals — if a fungal and inflammatory condition coexist, combination products (e.g., clotrimazole plus hydrocortisone) are available and preferable to applying both separately
- •Topical retinoids (tretinoin, adapalene) — using these alongside hydrocortisone may increase skin irritation and reduce the effectiveness of both
- •Occlusive dressings and tight bandages — covering treated areas traps moisture and significantly increases steroid absorption, raising the risk of side effects
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Topical hydrocortisone cream is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy when used in small amounts for short periods. However, it is advisable to use it only when clearly needed and to apply the minimum amount for the shortest time possible. Avoid applying hydrocortisone cream to large areas of skin or under occlusive dressings during pregnancy. There is no evidence that short-term topical use of mild steroids like hydrocortisone causes harm to the developing baby, but prolonged use of potent steroids has been associated with low birth weight. Hydrocortisone cream is considered compatible with breastfeeding when used on small areas of skin away from the breast. Do not apply hydrocortisone cream to the nipples or areola if breastfeeding, as the baby could ingest the medication. If you need to treat the breast area, wash the cream off thoroughly before breastfeeding.
Brands of Hydrocortisone in Nigeria
4 brands available in Nigeria.
| Brand Name | Manufacturer | Strength | Form |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hydrocortisone Cream | Various (Generic) | 1% cream | Cream |
| Locoid | LEO Pharma | 0.1% cream, 0.1% ointment | Cream/Ointment |
| Efcortelan | GlaxoSmithKline | 0.5% cream, 1% cream, 2.5% cream | Cream |
| Emzor Hydrocortisone | Emzor Pharmaceutical | 1% cream | Cream |
How to Verify Your Hydrocortisone is Genuine
- 1Check for a valid NAFDAC registration number on the packaging — all genuine hydrocortisone products sold in Nigeria must be registered with NAFDAC.
- 2Verify the NAFDAC number using the NAFDAC Green Book online portal or the NAFDAC mobile verification app available on Android and iOS.
- 3Purchase from licensed pharmacies and registered patent medicine stores only. Avoid buying hydrocortisone cream from unregistered vendors, open market stalls, or unlicensed online sellers.
- 4Inspect the packaging for clear, professional printing with correct spelling, a visible batch number, manufacturing date, and expiry date. Poor-quality printing, misspellings, or missing information are warning signs of counterfeit products.
- 5For branded products like Efcortelan and Locoid, check that the packaging matches the manufacturer's official design — compare with images on the manufacturer's website if possible.
- 6Be cautious of hydrocortisone products that are unusually cheap — if the price seems too good to be true, the product may be substandard or counterfeit.
Hydrocortisone Price in Nigeria
Hydrocortisone prices in Nigeria typically range from ₦200 to ₦5,000 per pack, depending on the brand, strength, and where you buy it.
₦200 – ₦5,000
per pack
Prices vary by location and vendor. Last updated: 2026-02-01
Where to Buy
Purchase Hydrocortisone only from licensed pharmacies and verified distributors. Avoid buying medicines from unverified sources, roadside vendors, or unregistered market stalls.
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources
- •NAFDAC Greenbook — National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control registered products database
- •WHO Model List of Essential Medicines (23rd List, 2023)
- •British National Formulary (BNF)
- •Nigerian Standard Treatment Guidelines