What important instruction should be given to a patient prescribed hydrocortisone?

Hydrocortisone is a corticosteroid commonly prescribed to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune response. One important instruction for patients taking hydrocortisone is to take it with food. This guidance minimizes the risk of gastrointestinal irritation and ulceration, which can occur with steroid use when taken on an empty stomach.

Taking the medication with food helps to protect the stomach lining, allowing for better tolerance of the drug. This approach also aids in maintaining steady drug levels in the bloodstream, contributing to more effective management of symptoms. Consequently, advising patients to take hydrocortisone with food maximizes the medication’s benefits while minimizing potential side effects, making it a crucial instruction for patient safety and comfort.