From the Guidelines
Hydrocortisone cream is generally not recommended for open sores, as it can delay healing and increase the risk of infection. Open wounds need proper wound care that promotes healing rather than anti-inflammatory treatment. According to the most recent and highest quality study, 1, the International Working Group of the Diabetic Foot (IWGDF) recommends against using topical antiseptic or antimicrobial dressings, including hydrocortisone cream, for wound healing of diabetes-related foot ulcers. Instead, the study suggests that sharp debridement and basic wound dressings, which maintain a moist wound healing environment, should be the standard of care.
Some key points to consider when treating open sores include:
- Cleaning the area gently with mild soap and water
- Applying an appropriate antibiotic ointment like bacitracin or Neosporin if needed
- Covering the area with a sterile bandage
- Avoiding the use of hydrocortisone cream or other topical corticosteroids, as they can delay healing and increase the risk of infection, as noted in 1 and 1
- Consulting a healthcare provider for proper treatment if the open sore shows signs of infection, is large, deep, or not healing properly.
It's also important to note that the use of topical corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone cream, can have negative effects on wound healing, including delaying the healing process and increasing the risk of infection, as discussed in 1. Therefore, it's essential to prioritize proper wound care and avoid using hydrocortisone cream or other topical corticosteroids on open sores.
From the Research
Hydrocortisone Cream for Open Sores
- Hydrocortisone cream can be used to treat open sores, but its effectiveness depends on the type of sore and the individual's overall health 2, 3.
- A study published in 1964 found that nitrofurazone-hydrocortisone cream was effective in treating infected lesions, including chronically infected decubital ulcers in paraplegic patients 2.
- Another study published in 2007 found that topical corticosteroids, including hydrocortisone cream, can accelerate healing and reduce pain in certain cases of chronic leg ulcers 3.
- However, a study published in 1983 found that topical steroids, including hydrocortisone cream, can inhibit wound healing in animal models 4.
- It is essential to note that the use of topical corticosteroids, including hydrocortisone cream, should be carefully monitored due to the risk of sensitization and potential increased risk of infection 3, 5.
Precautions and Considerations
- The risk of adverse effects from topical corticosteroids, including hydrocortisone cream, increases with prolonged use, large area of application, higher potency, occlusion, and application to areas of thinner skin 5.
- When using hydrocortisone cream to treat open sores, it is crucial to follow the prescribed dosage and application instructions to minimize the risk of adverse effects 5.
- Patients should be taught the correct application method, such as the fingertip unit method, to ensure safe and effective use of hydrocortisone cream 5.