Lycor CREAM

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Lycor CREAM

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Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 10/01/2026

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Lycor CREAM

Property Description
Active Ingredient Hydrocortisone
Form Cream (Topical Emulsion)
Pharmacological Class Corticosteroid / Glucocorticoid
Common Use Symptomatic relief of inflammatory skin discomfort
Origin Synthetic steroid

Lycor CREAM: Definition and Pharmacological Classification

Lycor CREAM is a widely used topical pharmaceutical preparation intended for external use, containing the active substance Hydrocortisone, which is classified pharmacologically as a low-potency glucocorticoid. This medicine is designed for application directly to the skin to concentrate its effects where they are needed.

The core identity of Lycor CREAM is based on Hydrocortisone, the synthetic equivalent of the human hormone cortisol. This low-potency status is clinically recognized for providing effective symptomatic relief with a minimized risk profile compared to higher-strength topical steroids. In many regions, Hydrocortisone preparations up to a certain strength are available over-the-counter (OTC), supporting its common use for general skin discomfort.

Composition and Form: The Hydrocortisone Cream Base

Lycor CREAM is formulated as a single-active-ingredient product featuring Hydrocortisone suspended in a smooth, non-occlusive cream base. This form is a water-and-oil emulsion, ensuring that the Hydrocortisone is dispersed evenly and absorbed efficiently into the skin’s outer layers.

The choice of a cream base provides a lighter texture compared to an oily ointment, a feature often preferred by users for applications on the face or intertriginous areas. This formulation delivers the therapeutic substance to reduce redness, swelling, and itching, which is the clinically recognized general purpose of topical hydrocortisone. The cream base aids in patient compliance by providing a non-greasy feel, ensuring the external application is comfortable.

General Therapeutic Purpose and Core Action

The overall therapeutic purpose of Lycor CREAM is to provide reliable symptomatic relief by directly addressing the inflammation in the skin. The medication’s core action is its ability to modulate the immune response, providing a localized anti-inflammatory and anti-pruritic effect.

This primary action effectively suppresses the chemical signaling that drives the inflammatory cycle. The fundamental outcome for the user is the cessation of discomfort, specifically the reduction of swelling, the alleviation of associated itching, and the calming of visible irritation.

What side effects are possible with Lycor CREAM?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The safety profile of Lycor CREAM (topical hydrocortisone) is officially documented based on regulatory classifications, focusing on both local adverse reactions and the potential for systemic effects due to absorption.

Adverse Reaction Scope

The most commonly listed adverse reactions relate to Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders at the application site, including localized burning sensation, itching, irritation, and dryness. These effects are typically classified as uncommon or of unknown frequency in regulatory summaries. Less common or rare dermatological effects linked to the cream include folliculitis, hypertrichosis, and acneiform eruptions.

Serious Adverse Reactions and Systemic Risk

Official labels detail serious adverse reactions primarily linked to prolonged use or high absorption conditions, which increase the risk of systemic exposure to the corticosteroid. These serious risks include Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis suppression and manifestations resembling Cushing's syndrome. Local changes such as skin atrophy (thinning), striae (stretch marks), and telangiectasia are also documented as serious concerns associated with long-term exposure. Furthermore, Topical Steroid Withdrawal (TSW) Syndrome, characterized by a severe rebound flare upon cessation, is noted as an undesirable effect of unknown frequency.

Population-Specific Safety Considerations

The regulatory data specifies that pediatric patients (infants and children) are at increased risk for systemic toxicity, such as HPA axis suppression, due to their higher skin surface area-to-body weight ratio. Safety constraints emphasize that systemic absorption is augmented by application to large surface areas, use under occlusive dressings (e.g., diapers), or application to broken skin or skin folds, structuring the overall risk profile.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and when to seek help

Overdose from Lycor CREAM, a topical corticosteroid, primarily involves the potential for systemic effects resulting from absorption through the skin. These effects are typically associated with using large doses, applying the product to extensive surface areas, or long-term use, especially under occlusive dressings.

Documented Overdose Presentations

The documented clinical manifestations of systemic overdose relate to the effects of high corticosteroid levels in the body. These may include signs of Cushing’s syndrome, such as weight gain and thinning skin, along with metabolic changes like hyperglycemia and glucosuria (sugar in the urine).

A serious, life-threatening risk is the potential for Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis suppression (adrenal suppression). This condition needs urgent medical attention, as it can lead to symptoms like low blood pressure, dizziness, or fainting.

When to Seek Immediate Medical Help

Immediate emergency medical attention is required if the product is swallowed. If a person has collapsed, is unconscious, or is not breathing, contact emergency services immediately. Additionally, if signs of adrenal suppression (low plasma cortisol, dizziness, or fainting) are suspected, urgent treatment is required.

Children are at a higher risk of systemic toxicity and HPA axis suppression due to their proportionally larger skin surface area relative to body weight. Manifestations in children may include linear growth retardation or delayed weight gain.

Therapeutic Uses of Lycor CREAM

What Lycor CREAM treats: main uses and benefits

Lycor CREAM is applied across domains where additional symptomatic support is needed, and is considered relevant in contexts marked by increased discomfort or tension due to localized skin inflammation. Topical hydrocortisone is commonly used to help with the redness, swelling, itching, and discomfort of various skin conditions. This medication is relevant in conditions characterized by periods of heightened symptoms, including flare-ups of Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis), acute Contact Dermatitis, and localized reactions to insect bites and stings.

It helps address symptom clusters that may become intense or disruptive, such as persistent pruritus and the associated burning sensation. The low-potency formulation is generally used in sensitive or thinner skin areas, including the face or skin folds (Intertrigo), providing support that helps ease the overall symptom burden in these areas. This supportive approach contributes to easing the overall symptom load and helps maintain a sense of stability when symptoms are more noticeable.


Quick Fact: Application for Pruritus and Inflammatory Symptoms

Lycor CREAM is commonly used to help address the combined pattern of skin redness, localized swelling, and intense itching that occurs during an acute inflammatory response.

Regulatory References

  1. NIH MedlinePlus overview

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Eligibility Scope

Contraindications (Who Must Not Use):

Use of Lycor CREAM is formally contraindicated for individuals with a known hypersensitivity or allergy to any component of the cream formulation. The medication must also not be used on specific skin conditions, including rosacea, acne, ulcers, or untreated dermatological infections (bacterial, viral, or fungal), as stated in regulatory documents.

Age-Related Eligibility:

The cream is established for use in adults and generally does not have specific age-related limitations for older adults. For children and adolescents, use is permitted but requires caution and close monitoring due to an increased risk of systemic absorption and potential effects such as HPA axis suppression. Over-the-counter products are typically not recommended for children under two years without consulting a physician.

Conditional Use and Restrictions:

Restrictions apply to the application method and site: the cream is for external use only and must not contact the eyes. Use is limited when applied over large body surface areas, on broken skin, or under occlusive dressings (including tight-fitting infant diapers). Additionally, patients with conditions like Cushing's syndrome or Diabetes must use the cream with caution, as systemic absorption may potentially worsen these metabolic disorders.

Pregnancy and Lactation Status:

Use in pregnant women is restricted; regulatory guidance advises against extensive or prolonged use. For nursing mothers, caution is advised as it is not known whether systemic absorption results in detectable quantities in breast milk.


What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

The official regulatory profile for Lycor CREAM, which contains topical hydrocortisone, is characterized by the absence of documented drug-drug interactions under normal conditions of use. Regulatory bodies, including the European and national health agencies, state that no known interactions with other medicinal products are associated with the minimal systemic absorption typical of the topical route.

Interaction scope

Property Description (Strictly Regulatory-Based)
Medicinal product categories with documented interactions: Potent inhibitors of the Cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) enzyme.
Specific interacting medicines (if explicitly listed): Ketoconazole (cited as a representative example of a potent CYP3A4 inhibitor).
Mechanistic basis of interactions (only if stated in label): Pharmacokinetic interaction: Inhibition of metabolism of systemically absorbed hydrocortisone.
Timing-based interaction rules (if applicable): None documented in official labeling.
Population-specific interaction notes (if applicable): Pediatric population is formally noted as more susceptible to systemic effects, which is the underlying factor for interaction relevance.
Interaction-related restrictions: None documented as a formal drug-drug contraindicated combination.

Interaction classifications (high-level)

Property Description (Strictly Regulatory-Based)
Interaction severity classification (as defined in official documents): Considered a conditional risk; clinically significant only with substantial systemic exposure.
Regulatory basis (EMA / FDA / etc.): Documented in US and European regulatory texts as a general corticosteroid interaction pattern.
Interaction-context constraints (as defined in official documents): Interaction is constrained by the extent of systemic absorption (e.g., application over large areas or under occlusion).

Resulting interaction structure

The regulatory documentation defines the product’s interaction structure around the theoretical potential for systemic exposure, which then introduces a formal pharmacokinetic interaction pattern with potent CYP3A4 inhibitors. Because minimal absorption is expected from typical use, the profile primarily notes this conditional risk rather than imposing explicit contraindicated combinations or mandatory timing requirements.

Mechanism of Action

Genomic Modulation of Inflammatory Processes

Lycor CREAM acts through its active ingredient, Hydrocortisone, which operates via two principal mechanistic domains to modulate the underlying local immune and vascular processes. The core mechanism involves regulating genetic activity, a process that inherently requires time and is essential for the pathway-level changes that follow.

Hydrocortisone functions as an agonist at the intracellular Glucocorticoid Receptor (GR), initiating a genomic mechanism where the activated receptor complex enters the cell's nucleus. This complex engages in Trans-repression of pro-inflammatory transcription factors, like NF-kappa B, thereby reducing the synthesis of pro-inflammatory chemical messengers. Concurrently, the process involves Transactivation of genes that code for anti-inflammatory proteins, influencing the cell's protein synthesis profile.

Inhibition of the Arachidonic Acid Cascade

The induced anti-inflammatory proteins, particularly Lipocortin-1 (Annexin A1), serve a mechanistic purpose by inhibiting the enzyme Phospholipase A2 ( PLA2). By restricting PLA2's action, the drug suppresses the release of arachidonic acid, thereby limiting the critical precursor needed to synthesize inflammatory mediators like prostaglandins and leukotrienes. This restriction limits the biological signals that lead to local vasodilation and fluid leakage, which results in reduced tissue fluid leakage and altered local vascular tone.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Lycor CREAM: Official Administration Guidelines

Lycor CREAM, a topical preparation containing hydrocortisone, is designated for external use only. The medicine's application protocol is established to define the proper method, frequency, and duration of use, governing how the medication is to be administered.


Administration Scope

Entity Category Official Usage Instructions and Entities
Route of Administration Topical (External use only)
Dosing Technique Apply a thin film (small quantity) to the affected skin area and rub in gently
Frequency and Schedule Typically applied two to four times daily until the condition is controlled
Course Duration Use is generally short-term; therapy should be discontinued when control is achieved

Contextual Use Requirements

Official labeling includes specific restrictions regarding application technique and patient population to control systemic exposure. The treated area should not be covered with occlusive dressings, plastic pants, or tight bandages unless this is explicitly directed by a physician. This instruction ensures the product’s use remains confined to its parameters.

For pediatric use, particularly in children under two years of age, the application of topical hydrocortisone is typically restricted and requires consultation with a healthcare professional. Furthermore, official documents emphasize that if no clinical improvement is observed, a diagnostic reassessment should occur after approximately two weeks of use, establishing a key procedural checkpoint in the treatment protocol.

All use must avoid sensitive sites, including application to the eyes or direct insertion into the rectum.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Lycor CREAM: Recent Clinical Evidence

Research has explored studies of Lycor CREAM (hydrocortisone) involving participants with various inflammatory skin conditions, including eczema and dermatitis. The evidence summary below is based strictly on findings reported in clinical trials and studies.


Efficacy and Combination Studies

Clinical research primarily focuses on the anti-inflammatory and anti-pruritic (anti-itching) effects of hydrocortisone. Key areas of investigation include:

  • Skin Conditions: Studies tracked participant data related to symptoms of dermatitis (such as atopic and contact dermatitis), eczema, and reactions to insect bites, examining the impact on swelling, redness, and irritation.
  • Co-Administration: Some recent studies investigated whether Lycor CREAM, when used alongside other non-pharmacological approaches, was associated with differences in overall outcomes for chronic skin issues.
  • Long-Term Outcomes: Research has examined data on long-term outcomes associated with Lycor CREAM use, typically defined by the study duration, for persistent inflammatory conditions.

Tolerability Profile Research

Research has investigated the tolerability of Lycor CREAM across various adult populations. The studies reported that adverse event profiles were predominantly mild, primarily involving reactions at the application site.

  • Adverse Events: Commonly reported events in studies included temporary symptoms such as burning, irritation, or dryness at the site of application. Studies noted that some participants reported reactions warranting further medical attention.
  • Population Focus: Research has also investigated outcomes associated with use in specific populations, including studies on the potential impact of high doses or prolonged application in individuals with conditions like kidney impairment or diabetes.

Key Studies & References

  1. Clinical Guideline for the Management of Eczema in Adults and Children (NICE Guideline NG120)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Lycor CREAM (FAQ)


Q: What is the main reason Lycor CREAM is prescribed?

According to official regulatory documents, Lycor CREAM, which contains hydrocortisone, is indicated for the temporary relief of certain inflammatory skin discomforts. Its purpose is to help reduce symptoms like itching, redness, and swelling associated with minor skin irritations. This includes relief for conditions such as eczema and various forms of dermatitis.


Q: Why do some people say they need to use Lycor CREAM for many weeks?

Official product information advises that the use of Lycor CREAM should generally be short-term and discontinued once the skin condition is controlled. Prolonged or extensive use is associated with a greater risk of systemic side effects, such as a temporary imbalance in the body's natural hormone production, and local effects like skin thinning. Use extending beyond the recommended short duration is typically subject to reassessment by a prescriber.


Q: What happens if I stop using Lycor CREAM suddenly?

Sudden cessation, particularly after prolonged use, may result in a severe rebound flare of the skin condition. Official warnings note that a severe adverse reaction called Topical Steroid Withdrawal (TSW) syndrome can occur, characterized by worsening skin symptoms after cessation. Official information notes that any cessation or change in use should be discussed with a healthcare professional.


Q: Can Lycor CREAM be applied to sensitive areas of the body?

Official guidance states that application is generally restricted or requires caution when used on sensitive or thin-skinned areas, including the face, groin, or armpits. The product's use is contraindicated on areas such as the eyes, inside the rectum, or broken skin due to the potential for increased absorption and associated side effects.


Q: Can teenagers or older children use Lycor CREAM?

Official directions for use indicate the product is generally intended for adults and children two years of age and older. For children under the age of two, official labeling states that use is restricted and requires the guidance of a medical professional. This is due to the increased potential for systemic absorption in younger patients.


Q: Are there any specific ingredients in Lycor CREAM that commonly cause allergic reactions?

Regulatory labels list all ingredients to help patients identify potential allergens. Certain inactive components found in some cream formulations, such as chlorocresol and cetostearyl alcohol, have been noted in official documents as substances that may cause allergic reactions (hypersensitivity) in sensitive individuals.


Q: Is Lycor CREAM used for eczema or just for psoriasis?

According to official indications and usage documents, Lycor CREAM is indicated for both eczema and psoriasis, as well as several forms of dermatitis. However, official information states it should not be applied to severe skin conditions such as untreated bacterial, viral, or fungal infections.


Q: Does using more Lycor CREAM make it work faster?

Official administration guidelines emphasize applying only a thin film of the cream to the affected area. Using more cream, applying it over large body surface areas, or covering it with an occlusive dressing increases the risk of side effects. Regulatory texts do not suggest that increasing the quantity of cream will speed up the onset of relief.


Q: If I have kidney or liver issues, can I still use Lycor CREAM?

Hydrocortisone, the active ingredient, is metabolized by the liver and excreted by the kidneys. While typically very little is absorbed from the skin, official information notes that patients with significant liver or kidney dysfunction are populations where use is advised with caution, as systemic absorption may potentially be a concern.


Q: How soon after applying Lycor CREAM can I cover the area with clothing?

Official warnings specify that the treated area should not be covered with occlusive dressings, plastic wraps, or tight bandages unless directed by a physician. Official instructions define that the area should not be wrapped with occlusive materials, such as tight bandages. This requirement ensures the product's use remains confined to its labeled parameters.


Q: Is Lycor CREAM suitable for use on the face?

Official regulatory texts note that application to the face is a restricted use that should be brief and closely monitored. Due to the thinner skin in this area, there is an increased potential for systemic absorption and local side effects like skin thinning (atrophy) if the cream is applied for prolonged periods.


Q: If I miss a time to apply the cream, should I just apply it later?

Official administration guidance often defines a procedure for missed doses. This procedure typically involves applying the missed application as soon as it is remembered, unless it is close to the next scheduled time, in which case the missed application is generally omitted. Applying a double quantity is not defined as part of the administration protocol.


Q: What should I do if Lycor CREAM accidentally gets in my eye?

Official product information explicitly states that contact with the eyes must be avoided. If accidental contact occurs, the regulatory guidance is to ensure the area is rinsed thoroughly with clean water.


Q: Do I need to wash the area before applying Lycor CREAM?

Official administration guidelines include procedures that often stipulate cleansing the affected area before application, particularly for conditions like anal or genital itching. The guidelines also define that washing hands with soap and water before and after applying the cream is part of the application procedure.


Q: If I'm using Lycor CREAM, can I use an anti-itch cream on another area of my body?

Official product information restricts the use of any other hydrocortisone product without prior consultation. The regulatory drug interaction profile does not generally restrict non-hydrocortisone topical creams applied to separate areas, but the use of concomitant topical medications is noted as requiring assessment.

How should Lycor CREAM be stored and disposed of?

Storage and Disposal Requirements for Lycor Cream

Lycor Cream (fluocinonide) must be stored according to regulatory mandates to maintain its stability and effectiveness.

Official Storage Conditions

Condition Requirement
Temperature Store at Controlled Room Temperature, typically 20 C to 25 C (68 F to 77 F).
Protection Do not freeze and protect the product from excessive heat, moisture, and direct light.
Container Keep the tube tightly closed and store the medicine in its original container.
Child Safety Keep Lycor Cream and all medications out of the sight and reach of children.

Disposal Instructions

When the product is expired or no longer needed, it must be disposed of properly. Patients should consult a healthcare professional or pharmacist for guidance on discarding the unused medicine. Disposal must follow local, regional, and national regulations for pharmaceutical waste.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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