Efficort Cream

Composition of Efficort Cream

Efficort Cream contains Hydrocortisone acetate 1% w/w. It belongs to the Low-potency topical glucocorticoid class of medicines.

Uses of Efficort Cream

• Relief of inflammation
• redness and itching in corticosteroid-responsive skin conditions such as eczema (atopic/contact dermatitis)
• allergic rashes
• insect bite reactions and mild psoriasis (as advised by a doctor)

Key benefits

• Reduces itching
• Decreases redness and swelling
• Relieves eczema/dermatitis flare symptoms
• Soothes allergic/insect bite skin reactions
• Helps control mild inflammatory skin conditions

How Efficort Cream works

Hydrocortisone is a low‑potency topical corticosteroid. It reduces release of inflammatory mediators in the skin and suppresses immune reactions, thereby decreasing redness, swelling and itching.

How to take Efficort Cream

For external use only. Apply a thin layer to the affected area 1–2 times daily or as prescribed; rub in gently. Use the smallest amount for the shortest duration; wash hands after use. Avoid use on broken skin, eyes, inside mouth/nose and do not cover with occlusive dressings unless advised.

Take it exactly as your doctor prescribed. Do not change the dose or stop early on your own.

Missed dose and overdose

If you miss a dose

Apply it as soon as you remember. If it is nearly time for the next application, skip the missed one — applying extra does not make up for it.

If you take too much

An overdose of this medicine can cause weight gain, high blood sugar, bone thinning and suppression of the body's own steroid production when it is taken over a prolonged period. Do not wait for symptoms to appear — go to the nearest emergency department and take the pack or strip with you.

Side effects of Efficort Cream

Most side effects of Efficort are mild and settle as the body adjusts. Reported side effects include:

• Burning or stinging at application site
• itching
• dryness
• redness
• irritation
• skin thinning (atrophy) with prolonged use
• acne/folliculitis
• hypopigmentation
• stretch marks
• increased hair growth
• secondary infection

Stop the medicine and seek help immediately for a rash, swelling of the face or lips, wheezing or difficulty breathing. Tell your doctor about any side effect that persists or worries you.

Safety advice for Efficort Cream

Warnings and precautions

Do not use on untreated bacterial, fungal or viral skin infections (e.g., ringworm, herpes, chickenpox) unless prescribed with appropriate anti-infective treatment. Prolonged or extensive use, use under occlusion, on face/groin/armpits, or in children can increase absorption and risk of systemic steroid effects. Stop and consult a doctor if irritation, worsening, or signs of infection occur. Avoid long-term continuous use; use with caution in diabetes, glaucoma/cataract (avoid near eyes).

Do not take Efficort if

Not for anyone with a known allergy to this medicine or to any ingredient in the pack. Not for people with an untreated systemic infection, except where the steroid is part of the treatment.

Interactions with other medicines

No major interactions expected with typical topical use. Increased systemic effects possible if used over large areas/under occlusion with other corticosteroids; caution with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ritonavir, ketoconazole) if significant absorption is expected.

How to store Efficort Cream

Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place. Protect from heat and direct light. Keep the tube tightly closed and out of reach of children.

Expert advice for Efficort Cream

Take the whole daily dose in the morning with food, unless your doctor directs otherwise — this suits the body's own rhythm and helps you sleep. Carry a steroid card or note if you are on a long course. Watch your salt, sugar and weight during the course.

Manufacturer and class

Manufacturer:

GALDERMA INDIA PVT LTD

Therapeutic class:

Dermatological (Topical corticosteroid)

Drug class:

Low-potency topical glucocorticoid