Hydrocortisone

Question 1

Hydrocortisone - Type

Answer 1

Adenocorticosteroid

Question 2

Hydrocortisone - Presentation

Answer 2

100mg powder in 2ml vial, reconstitute with 2ml normal saline

Question 3

Hydrocortisone - Actions

Answer 3

Numerous and widespread. ACTAS administration is for the anti-inflammatory effect on the airways

Question 4

Hydrocortisone - Uses (2)

Answer 4

1. Moderate to sever bronchospasm due to asthma or chronic airways disease
2. Pts with a Hx of Addison’s disease who present with a problem likely to precipitate a stress response e.g. AMI, fractures, asthma, gastroenteritis

Question 5

Hydrocortisone - Adverse effects

Answer 5

Nil significant with single use

Question 6

Hydrocortisone - Contraindication

Answer 6

Known previous reaction to corticosteroids

Question 7

Hydrocortisone - Doses

Answer 7

Adult - 200mg IV/IM over 2/60

Paediatric - 4mg/kg IV/IM over 2/60

Question 8

Hydrocortisone - Special note

Answer 8

Not a first line priority drug in the management of severe bronchospasm.