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Hydrocortisone (pills)

Brand names: Cortef, Alkindi Sprinkle

Hydrocortisone pills replace cortisol in people whose adrenal glands don't make enough, such as in Addison's disease.

Brand namesCortef, Alkindi Sprinkle
Type of medicineCorticosteroid (steroid)
Prescription?Prescription
ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.

Overview

People on replacement need 'stress doses' when sick and should carry an emergency card or injection kit.

What it's used for

  • Adrenal insufficiency (Addison's disease)
  • Congenital adrenal hyperplasia

How to take it

  • Take it as prescribed, often 2 or 3 times a day with the largest dose in the morning.
  • Follow your sick-day rules: usually double or triple the dose with fever or illness, as your provider directs.

Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.

Side effects

Common side effects

  • Usually few at replacement doses
Call 911Vomiting and unable to keep doses down, confusion, severe weakness, or fainting (adrenal crisis). Use your emergency injection and call 911.

Warnings

  • Never stop suddenly.
  • Wear a medical alert ID.

Other medicines, foods, and alcohol

  • Some seizure medicines and rifampin raise your dose needs.

Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Usually continued in pregnancy.

Missed doses, overdose, and storage

If you miss a dose

Take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. Then skip the missed dose. Don't take two doses at once.

If someone takes too much

Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.

Storing it

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.

Conditions it's used for

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.