Are cortisone ointments available over the counter?

It is possible to buy cortisone ointments without prescription. However, these are low concentrated. This means that there are only over-the-counter cortisone ointments whose preparation has an active ingredient concentration of less than 0.5%.

However, even with low-dose cortisone ointments, there is a risk of side effects and damage if used incorrectly or permanently. It is therefore advisable to discuss cortisone treatment with a doctor if possible. In addition, in children under 6 years of age, all cortisone ointments, including these low-dose cortisone ointments, require a prescription.

Most preparations containing cortisone are only available on prescription due to possible side effects. Now there are some ointments that can be bought over the counter in pharmacies. Here the active substance, hydrocortisone, is in lower doses than in the prescription-only preparations.

The limit for over-the-counter sales is a concentration of 0.5%. The effectiveness of such a cortisone ointment is weaker, but any side effects do not occur or occur only very weakly due to the smaller quantity of active substance. Thus, over-the-counter cortisone ointment is suitable for the treatment of inflammatory or allergic superficial skin diseases with mild to moderate symptoms.

The hydrocortisone helps to dampen the immune system and thus prevent an excessive reaction. Typical areas of application are, for example, skin affected by itching or insect bites. The use of an over-the-counter cortisone ointment is also recommended for other allergic reactions with redness and wheals of the skin.

If the symptoms are not very pronounced, it can be helpful in the case of neurodermatitis. Cortisone ointments should not be used on open wounds or acne. Likewise, over-the-counter use should be discontinued after 14 days at the latest and a doctor should be consulted, as after this period of time side effects such as thin and brittle skin that tears easily can occur even with local application.

Cortisone ointment and pill taking

The use of cortisone ointments does not generally endanger the effect of the contraceptive pill. This means that the contraceptive protection is not affected by the cortisone ointment itself. It does not matter what kind of contraceptive pill is taken.

Nevertheless, the gynaecologist should always be informed if cortisone preparations are used. At best, the gynaecologist should be consulted before starting the application. Especially if there are uncertainties or the ointment is to be used in the genital area.

There are many different hormones in the body, some of which interact with each other and can inhibit or release each other. The active substance contained in cortisone ointments is structurally similar to the hormones used in the so-called pill, oral contraception: the progestins and estrogens. Consequently, the question is often raised whether cortisone ointments impair the effect of the pill or vice versa.

It has been observed in studies that estrogens can increase the concentration of cortisone in the blood. However, it must be said that the use of a cortisone ointment has no influence on the effect of the pill. When used as an ointment, the cortisone accumulates in certain skin layers and is released evenly from there (depot effect).

However, virtually no active substance enters the circulation and thus the entire body. The measurable amount of cortisone there is far too small, if any, when used locally to interact with the hormones in the pill. In the case of systemic treatment with cortisone, e.g. in the form of tablets, on the other hand, a clarification with a gynaecologist is extremely advisable, as large quantities of cortisone act throughout the body. In case of doubt, it is also always advisable to read the package insert of both drugs carefully to answer this question.