What each one is for, how to take it, side effects and warnings, side by side from the official labels.
| Prednisolone | Hydrocortisone | |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | A steroid (corticosteroid) | A steroid (corticosteroid) |
| Used for | 1. Endocrine disorders . Primary or secondary adrenocortical insufficiency (hydrocortisone or cortisone is the first choice; synthetic analogs may be used in conjunction with mineralocorticoids where applicable; in infancy mineralocorticoid supplementation is… | • temporarily relieves itching associated with minor skin irritations, inflammation, and rashes due to: • eczema • psoriasis • poison ivy, oak, sumac • insect bites • detergents • jewelry • cosmetics • soaps • seborrheic dermatitis • temporarily relieves exter… |
| Children | Not on the label | Children 2 years of age and older: apply to affected area not more than 3 to 4 times daily. |
| Prescription (U.S.) | Yes | No (over the counter) |
| Common side effects | Fluid and Electrolyte Disturbances Sodium retention. Fluid retention. Congestive heart failure in susceptible patients. Potassium loss. Hypokalemic alkalosis. Hypertension. Musculoskeletal Muscle weakness. Steroid myopathy. Loss o… | • condition worsens • rectal bleeding occurs • symptoms persist for more than 7 days or clear up and occur again within a few days, and do not begin use of any other hydrocortisone product unless you have asked a doctor |
From the official U.S. labels. Brands and strengths differ between countries.
Neither official label mentions the other. That does not prove they are safe together: ask a pharmacist, and use the free interaction checker.
Check them togetherPrednisolone is a steroid (corticosteroid) and Hydrocortisone is a steroid (corticosteroid). Prednisolone is used for: 1. Endocrine disorders . Primary or secondary adrenocortical insufficiency (hydrocortisone or cortisone is the first choice; synthetic analogs may be used in conjunction with mineralocorticoids where applicable; in infancy mineralocorticoid supplementation is… Hydrocortisone is used for: • temporarily relieves itching associated with minor skin irritations, inflammation, and rashes due to: • eczema • psoriasis • poison ivy, oak, sumac • insect bites • detergents • jewelry • cosmetics • soaps • seborrheic dermatitis • temporarily relieves exter…
Neither official label mentions the other. That does not prove they are safe together: ask a pharmacist, and use the free interaction checker.
It depends on what you are treating, your health and other medicines. Your doctor or pharmacist can tell you which one suits you; this page shows what each official label says.