Hydrocortisone
Solu-Cortef is the brand name for hydrocortisone sodium succinate, a synthetic corticosteroid available in injectable form. It is used to treat adrenal insufficiency, severe allergic reactions, and various inflammatory and immune-mediated conditions by reducing inflammation and suppressing abnormal immune responses.
Solu-Cortef is an injectable corticosteroid used to treat adrenal insufficiency, severe inflammation, and allergic reactions.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 203592
- Generic
- Solu-Cortef
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Solu-Cortef is used to treat adrenal insufficiency (Addison's disease), severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis), inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, certain skin disorders, respiratory conditions like severe asthma, and as adjunctive therapy in shock. It is also used during surgery in patients with adrenal insufficiency to prevent adrenal crisis.
Solu-Cortef contains hydrocortisone, a glucocorticoid that works by binding to glucocorticoid receptors in cells. This interaction reduces inflammation by inhibiting the production of inflammatory substances like prostaglandins and leukotrienes, suppressing the activity of immune cells (particularly T-cells), and decreasing the permeability of blood vessels to reduce swelling.
Solu-Cortef is administered intravenously or intramuscularly by healthcare professionals in clinical settings. Common side effects include elevated blood sugar, mood changes, fluid retention, and increased blood pressure. Long-term use requires careful monitoring due to risks of osteoporosis, muscle weakness, and adrenal suppression. Abrupt discontinuation after prolonged use is not recommended. Patients should inform their doctor of all medications and any history of infections, diabetes, or osteoporosis before treatment.
Official drug label
WellAlly may earn a referral fee from linked resources at no extra cost to you. Editorial content is never influenced by commercial relationships.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 9, 2026. · Read our editorial policy