Westcort Cream (Hydrocortisone Valerate Cream) Drug Information: Description, User Reviews, Drug Side Effects, Interactions

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February 9, 2012

Westcort

Hemorrhoids »

What are hemorrhoids?

A precise definition of hemorrhoids does not exist, but they can be described as masses or clumps ("cushions") of tissue within the anal canal that contain blood vessels and the surrounding, supporting tissue made up of muscle and elastic fibers. The anal canal is the last four centimeters through which stool passes as it goes from the rectum to the outside world. The anus is the opening of the anal canal to the outside world.

Although most people think hemorrhoids are abnormal, they are present in everyone. It is only when the hemorrhoidal cushions enlarge that hemorrhoids can cause problems and be considered abnormal or a disease.

Prevalence of hemorrhoids

Although hemorrhoids occur in everyone, they become large and cause problems in only 4% of the general population. Hemorrhoids that cause problems are found equally in men and women, and their prevalence peaks between 45 and 65 years of age.

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Read the Hemorrhoids article »

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Westcort Cream User Reviews >>

Westcort Cream

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WESTCORT®
(hydrocortisone valerate) Cream, 0.2%

For Dermatologic Use Only. Not for Ophthalmic Use

DRUG DESCRIPTION

WESTCORT CREAM contains hydrocortisone valerate, 11,2l-dihydroxy-17-[(l-oxopentyl)oxy]-(11β)-pregn-4-ene-3,20-dione, a synthetic corticosteroid for topical dermatologic use. The corticosteroids constitute a class of primarily synthetic steroids used topically as anti-inflammatory and antipruritic agents.

Chemically, hydrocortisone valerate is C₂₆H₃₈O₆. It has the following structural formula:

WESTCORT®
(hydrocortisone valerate) Structural Formula Illustration

Hydrocortisone valerate has a molecular weight of 446.58. It is a white, crystalline solid, soluble in ethanol and methanol, sparingly soluble in propylene glycol and insoluble in water.

Each gram of WESCORT CREAM contains 2mg hydrocortisone valerate in a hydrophilic base composed of amphoteric-9, carbomer 940, dried sodium phosphate, propylene glycol, sodium lauryl sulfate, sorbic acid, stearyl alcohol, water and white petrolatum.

What are the precautions when taking hydrocortisone valerate cream (Westcort Cream)?

Before using hydrocortisone valerate, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone, triamcinolone); or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: poor blood circulation, diabetes, immune system problems.

Do not use if there is an infection or sore in the area to be treated.

Rarely, using corticosteroid medications for a long time or over large areas of skin can make it more difficult for your body to respond to physical stress. Therefore, before having surgery or emergency...

Read All Potential Precautions of Westcort Cream »

Last reviewed on RxList: 1/13/2009
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.