# Hydrocortisone in Nigeria

Hydrocortisone has 21 active NAFDAC registrations in our October 2026 copy of the register, from 20 registration holders; 9 further listings have lapsed.

- Source: https://ogbogwu.com/drugs/hydrocortisone/
- Drug class: Mild corticosteroid (Dermatology)
- Also known as: Cortisol, Hydrocort
- Prescription required: no
- On the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines
- Last updated: October 2026

## Price in Nigeria

As of October 2026, Hydrocortisone sells for about ₦2,000 online in Nigeria (₦1,700–₦2,100) at HealthPlus and Supermart.ng. The online price is up 2% since July 2026. Open-market prices (e.g. Idumota, Ogbogwu) are often lower.

## 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?

- 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

Always follow a doctor's or pharmacist's instructions; this is general reference information.

- 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: 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 (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

Do not take if: 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.

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 in Nigeria

Well-known NAFDAC-registered brands: Drugfield Hydrocortisone Cream (Drugfield Pharmaceuticals, made in Nigeria); Locoid (LEO Pharma, made in Netherlands); Efcortelan (GlaxoSmithKline, made in United Kingdom).
Full searchable brand list: https://ogbogwu.com/drugs/hydrocortisone/brands/

## How to verify it is genuine

1. Check for a valid NAFDAC registration number on the packaging — all genuine hydrocortisone products sold in Nigeria must be registered with NAFDAC.
2. Verify the NAFDAC number using the NAFDAC Green Book online portal or the NAFDAC mobile verification app available on Android and iOS.
3. Purchase from licensed pharmacies and registered patent medicine stores only. Avoid buying hydrocortisone cream from unregistered vendors, open market stalls, or unlicensed online sellers.
4. Inspect 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.
5. For 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.
6. Be cautious of hydrocortisone products that are unusually cheap — if the price seems too good to be true, the product may be substandard or counterfeit.

Verify any NAFDAC number free (no login): https://ogbogwu.com/nafdac-checker/

## FAQs

### Can I use hydrocortisone cream on my face for rash or eczema?

Hydrocortisone 1% cream can be used on the face for short periods (up to five days) to treat mild eczema, contact dermatitis, or insect bite reactions. However, the facial skin is much thinner and more delicate than skin on the body, making it more susceptible to the side effects of steroid creams, including skin thinning, visible blood vessels, and steroid-induced acne or rosacea. You should never use hydrocortisone cream on the face for prolonged periods without a doctor's supervision. Do not apply it around the eyes unless specifically instructed by a doctor. If you have a persistent facial rash, see a dermatologist for proper assessment — many facial skin conditions in Nigeria are misdiagnosed and mistreated with steroid creams, leading to a condition called topical steroid-damaged face, which is increasingly common.

### What is the difference between hydrocortisone cream and antifungal cream like clotrimazole?

Hydrocortisone cream and antifungal creams like clotrimazole (Canesten) work in completely different ways and treat different conditions. Hydrocortisone is a steroid that reduces inflammation, redness, and itching but does NOT kill any infection. It is used for inflammatory conditions like eczema, contact dermatitis, heat rash, and insect bites. Clotrimazole is an antifungal that kills fungal organisms and is used for infections like ringworm, athlete's foot, and vaginal thrush. It is a very common mistake in Nigeria to use hydrocortisone cream for ringworm — this will actually make the ringworm worse because the steroid suppresses the skin's immune defence against the fungus, allowing it to spread. If your skin rash is caused by a fungal infection, you need an antifungal cream, not a steroid cream. If you are unsure about the cause of your rash, consult a pharmacist or doctor before choosing a cream.

### Is it safe to use hydrocortisone cream for skin lightening or bleaching?

No, absolutely not. Using hydrocortisone cream or any steroid cream for skin lightening or bleaching is extremely dangerous and is strongly condemned by NAFDAC, the Nigerian Dermatological Society, and dermatologists worldwide. While steroid creams can temporarily lighten the skin by thinning it and reducing melanin production, this comes with severe and often permanent consequences. Prolonged misuse of steroid creams for bleaching causes irreversible skin thinning, unsightly stretch marks, visible blood vessels on the face, steroid-dependent skin that flares badly when the cream is stopped, easy bruising and tearing of the skin, increased risk of skin infections, and poor wound healing. In Nigeria, this practice is alarmingly common and has created a public health crisis. Many market-sold 'toning' or 'lightening' creams contain undeclared potent steroids. If you are concerned about your skin complexion, consult a qualified dermatologist for safe options.

## Sources

- NAFDAC Greenbook (official register of approved products in Nigeria)
- WHO Model List of Essential Medicines
- British National Formulary (BNF)
- Nigerian Standard Treatment Guidelines (Federal Ministry of Health)