Dr. Ogbru received his Doctorate in Pharmacy from the University of the Pacific School of Pharmacy in 1995. He completed a Pharmacy Practice Residency at the University of Arizona/University Medical Center in 1996. He was a Professor of Pharmacy Practice and a Regional Clerkship Coordinator for the University of the Pacific School of Pharmacy from 1996-99.
Jay W. Marks, MD, is a board-certified internist and gastroenterologist. He graduated from Yale University School of Medicine and trained in internal medicine and gastroenterology at UCLA/Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles.
DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Hydrocortisone valerate is a synthetic
(man-made) corticosteroid that is used on the skin (topically). The
naturally-occurring corticosteroid is cortisol or hydrocortisone produced by the
adrenal gland. Corticosteroids have potent anti-inflammatory actions and also
suppress the immune response.
GENERIC AVAILABLE: Yes
PRESCRIPTION: Yes
PREPARATIONS: Cream or Ointment: 0.2%; 15 g, 45 g, 60 g, 120 g
STORAGE: Store at room temperature, 59-86°F (15-30°C).
PRESCRIBED FOR:
Hydrocortisone valerate is used for the relief of itching and inflammation
caused by a wide variety of skin conditions (e.g., insect bites, allergic reactions
and eczema).
DOSING: Apply sparingly to affected areas once or twice daily. The
minimum effective amount should be used.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: No significant drug interactions have been
described with hydrocortisone valerate.
PREGNANCY: The use of hydrocortisone valerate in pregnant women has
not been adequately evaluated.
NURSING MOTHERS: It is not known if hydrocortisone valerate is
secreted in breast milk.
SIDE EFFECTS: The most common side effects are burning, itching,
irritation and dryness at application sites. Side effects are more frequent when
occlusive dressings or large quantities are applied. Applying corticosteroids to
infected skin may worsen the infection.
Anal itching is the irritation of the skin at the exit of the rectum, known as the anus, accompanied by the desire to scratch. Causes include everything from irritating foods we eat, to certain disease and infections. Treatment options include local anesthetics, vasoconstrictors, protectants, astringents, antiseptics, keratolytics, analgesics, and corticosteroids. If condition persists, a doctor examination may be needed to identify an underlying cause.
Anal itching is the irritation of the skin at the exit of the rectum, known as the anus, accompanied by the desire to scratch. Although
itching may be a reaction to chemicals in the stool, it often implies that there is inflammation of the anal area. The intensity of anal itching and the amount of inflammation increases from the direct trauma of scratching and the presence of moisture. At its most intense, anal itching causes intolerable discomfort that often is described as burning and soreness.
What causes anal itching?
Anal itching can be caused by irritating chemicals in the foods we eat, such as are found in spices, hot sauces, and peppers.
Anal itching also can be caused by the irritation of continuous moisture in the anus caused by frequent liquid stools,
diarrhea, or escape of small amounts of stool (incontinence). Moisture increases the possibility of infections of the a...
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