lemcort 200mg injection - Hydrocortisone (200mg) medicine

Arvisone 200mg Injection: Complete Guide to Uses, Side Effects, and Safety

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🏭 Lemford Biotech Pvt Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Sep 25, 2026
⚠️ Nephrotoxicity Risk 📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
12 min read
Evidence: Well-established for approved indications.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Sep 25, 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Difficulty breathing or swelling of the face, lips, or throat
  • Severe chest pain or palpitations
  • Black, tarry stools or vomiting blood
  • Sudden severe headache or vision changes
  • High fever with chills or other signs of infection
  • Extreme weakness or dizziness
  • Confusion or hallucinations

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is lemcort 200mg injection used for?

This medicine is a steroid injection containing hydrocortisone 200mg, used for severe allergic reactions, asthma attacks, and adrenal insufficiency. It works by reducing inflammation and suppressing the immune system. It is given by a healthcare professional and requires a prescription.

  • Generic Name: Hydrocortisone (200mg)
  • Manufacturer: Lemford Biotech Pvt Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 lemcort 200mg injection के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा हाइड्रोकॉर्टिसोन 200mg इंजेक्शन है, जिसका उपयोग गंभीर एलर्जी प्रतिक्रियाओं, अस्थमा के दौरे, और अधिवृक्क अपर्याप्तता (एड्रेनल इनसफिशिएंसी) के इलाज में किया जाता है। यह सूजन को कम करने और प्रतिरक्षा प्रणाली को दबाने में मदद करता है। यह इंजेक्शन डॉक्टर या नर्स द्वारा दिया जाता है और इसे स्वयं नहीं लगाया जाना चाहिए।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में इंजेक्शन स्थल पर दर्द, लालिमा, रक्त शर्करा में वृद्धि, तरल पदार्थ का संचय, मूड में बदलाव और अनिद्रा शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों में एलर्जी प्रतिक्रिया, संक्रमण का खतरा, और अधिवृक्क ग्रंथि का दमन शामिल हो सकता है। किसी भी असामान्य लक्षण की तुरंत डॉक्टर को सूचना दें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: यह दवा केवल डॉक्टर या प्रशिक्षित स्वास्थ्यकर्मी द्वारा ही दी जानी चाहिए। इसे स्वयं न लगाएं। अपने डॉक्टर को अपनी सभी चिकित्सीय स्थितियों के बारे में बताएं, विशेष रूप से संक्रमण, मधुमेह, हृदय रोग, या गुर्दे की बीमारी। लंबे समय तक उपयोग के बाद अचानक बंद न करें; डॉक्टर की सलाह से धीरे-धीरे कम करें। संक्रमण के लक्षण, असामान्य वजन बढ़ना, या मूड में बदलाव होने पर तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

💡 Did You Know? The Indian pharmaceutical market is expected to reach $130 billion by 2030.

💊 lemcort 200mg injection Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis adjunct)","description":"Used as an adjunct to epinephrine in the emergency management of severe allergic reactions to reduce inflammation and prevent biphasic reactions.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Acute asthma exacerbation","description":"Administered to reduce airway inflammation and edema in moderate to severe asthma attacks when oral or inhaled therapy is insufficient.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Adrenal insufficiency (acute adrenal crisis)","description":"Provides rapid glucocorticoid replacement in patients with adrenal crisis who cannot take oral medication.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Inflammatory and autoimmune conditions","description":"Used for short-term management of severe rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and inflammatory bowel disease flares.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Cerebral edema","description":"May be used to reduce cerebral edema associated with brain tumors or neurosurgery, though other steroids like dexamethasone are often preferred.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Prevention of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting","description":"Sometimes used as an adjunct antiemetic in chemotherapy regimens, though other corticosteroids are more commonly used.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Severe COVID-19 with cytokine storm","description":"Hydrocortisone has been used in some settings for critically ill COVID-19 patients, but evidence is evolving and other steroids are preferred.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Adrenal insufficiency

Also treats: Severe allergic reactions, Asthma exacerbation, Inflammatory arthritis, Autoimmune disorders

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Hydrocortisone (200mg)
Brand Namelemcort 200mg injection
ManufacturerLemford Biotech Pvt Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassRESPIRATORY
Action ClassGlucocorticoids
Route of AdministrationParenteral (intravenous or intramuscular injection)
StorageStore at controlled room temperature 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Protect from light and freezing. Keep in original packaging until use.
Shelf LifeTypically 24 months from the date of manufacture, but check the expiry date on the vial.
WHO GuidelineThe World Health Organization includes hydrocortisone in its Model List of Essential Medicines for the management of adrenal insufficiency and severe allergic reactions. Specific dosing recommendations are provided in WHO guidelines for these conditions.
ICMR GuidelineThe Indian Council of Medical Research has guidelines for the management of adrenal insufficiency and anaphylaxis that include the use of injectable hydrocortisone as adjunctive therapy. Consult the latest ICMR guidelines for detailed recommendations.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Always administer this medicine under medical supervision; it is not for self-injection.
2
Monitor blood glucose closely in diabetic patients, as hydrocortisone can cause hyperglycemia.
3
Assess for signs of infection before and during therapy, as corticosteroids can mask symptoms.
4
Taper the dose gradually if used for more than a few days to avoid adrenal crisis.
5
Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration to minimize side effects.
6
In adrenal crisis, ensure adequate fluid and electrolyte replacement alongside hydrocortisone.
7
Educate patients about the potential for mood changes and the need to report them.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
Severe allergic reaction
This medicine is commonly used as an adjunct in severe allergic reactions.
Likely Use
✅
Asthma attack
It is used to reduce airway inflammation in acute asthma exacerbations.
Likely Use
✅
Adrenal crisis
It is the treatment of choice for acute adrenal insufficiency.
Likely Use
❌
Mild allergy
This medicine is not for mild allergies; antihistamines are typically used.
Not Primary
❌
Fever
It is not a primary fever reducer.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionThis medicine is administered parenterally, so absorption is direct and complete, bypassing the gastrointestinal tract. Onset of action is rapid, typically within minutes to hours depending on the route.
DistributionHydrocortisone is distributed widely throughout the body, crossing the placenta and appearing in breast milk. It is approximately 90% bound to plasma proteins, primarily transcortin and albumin.
Protein BindingApproximately 90% bound to plasma proteins, mainly corticosteroid-binding globulin (transcortin) and albumin.
MetabolismHydrocortisone is metabolized primarily in the liver via reduction and conjugation, forming inactive metabolites such as tetrahydrocortisone and tetrahydrocortisol, which are then excreted.
Half-LifeThe biological half-life is approximately 8-12 hours, while the plasma half-life is about 1.5-2 hours.
ExcretionMetabolites are excreted mainly in the urine, with a small amount in bile and feces.
Bioavailability100% for intravenous administration; for intramuscular, it is rapidly and completely absorbed.
Onset of ActionIntravenous: within minutes; Intramuscular: within 1 hour.
Peak Plasma TimeIntravenous: immediate; Intramuscular: approximately 30-60 minutes.
Duration of ActionThe anti-inflammatory effect can last from several hours to days, depending on the dose and route.

How It Works

This medicine works by binding to glucocorticoid receptors in the cytoplasm, leading to receptor activation and translocation into the nucleus. Once in the nucleus, it modulates the transcription of various genes, suppressing pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes like cyclooxygenase-2, and inducing anti-inflammatory proteins such as lipocortin-1. This results in reduced inflammation, immune suppression, and stabilization of lysosomal membranes.

Mechanism Steps

1
Receptor binding: Hydrocortisone diffuses into the cell and binds to the cytoplasmic glucocorticoid receptor.
2
Receptor activation and translocation: The bound receptor undergoes a conformational change, dissociates from heat shock proteins, and translocates into the nucleus.
3
Gene transcription modulation: In the nucleus, the receptor binds to glucocorticoid response elements in DNA, altering the transcription of target genes.
4
Suppression of inflammatory mediators: This leads to decreased production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, chemokines, and enzymes like COX-2 and iNOS.
5
Immune cell suppression: The medicine reduces the function and number of immune cells such as T lymphocytes, macrophages, and eosinophils.

💡 How to Take lemcort 200mg injection

Strength: Injection: 200mg per vial

1This medicine is administered by a healthcare professional only.
2It is given as an intravenous or intramuscular injection.
3Do not attempt to self-administer.
4Follow your doctor's instructions regarding dose and frequency.
5Report any side effects to your doctor immediately.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe dosage of this medicine is individualized by a qualified clinician based on the indication, severity of the condition, patient's age, weight, and renal and hepatic function. For acute adrenal insufficiency, a typical initial dose is 100 mg to 200 mg intravenously, followed by maintenance doses. For severe allergic reactions, 100 mg to 200 mg may be given intramuscularly or intravenously. Doses may be repeated every 2 to 6 hours as needed. Always follow the prescribed regimen.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician for appropriate dosing.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may be more susceptible to side effects such as osteoporosis, hyperglycemia, and fluid retention. Use with caution and monitor closely.
Renal ImpairmentNo specific dosage adjustment is typically required for renal impairment, but use with caution and monitor fluid and electrolyte balance.
Hepatic ImpairmentIn severe hepatic impairment, the metabolism of hydrocortisone may be prolonged. Use with caution and consider dose reduction.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum daily dose varies by indication and is determined by the clinician. In acute situations, doses up to 200 mg or more may be used, but should not exceed the prescribed limit.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Not applicable for injectable form
This medicine is given parenterally, so food timing does not affect its administration.
Grapefruit
Avoid
May increase hydrocortisone levels, though interaction is more relevant for oral forms.
High-sodium foods
Limit
Corticosteroids can cause fluid retention; excess sodium may worsen this.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 If you miss a scheduled dose
→ Contact your healthcare provider immediately for guidance.
💡 Do not attempt to self-administer an extra dose.

⚠️ Side Effects of lemcort 200mg injection

✅ Common Side Effects

Injection site pain (Common (up to 10%))
Apply a cold compress to the site. Report if severe or persistent.
Hyperglycemia (Common (5-10%))
Monitor blood sugar if diabetic. Report elevated readings to your doctor.
Fluid retention (Common (5-10%))
Reduce salt intake. Inform doctor if swelling worsens.
Mood changes (Common (5-10%))
Discuss with your doctor if you feel unusually anxious, depressed, or euphoric.
Insomnia (Common (5-10%))
Avoid caffeine and maintain a regular sleep schedule. Report if persistent.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
Adrenal suppression (Uncommon with short-term use, common with prolonged use)
Do not stop abruptly after long-term use. Follow your doctor's tapering schedule.
Increased susceptibility to infections (Uncommon)
Report any signs of infection such as fever, sore throat, or wounds that won't heal.
Gastrointestinal bleeding (Rare)
Seek immediate care if you notice black, tarry stools or vomit blood.
Psychosis (Rare)
Seek immediate medical help if you experience hallucinations, confusion, or severe mood swings.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Seizures
Seek emergency medical attention immediately.
Cardiac arrhythmias
Report palpitations or irregular heartbeat to your doctor immediately.
Optic neuritis
Report sudden vision changes or eye pain.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Warfarin Major
Ketoconazole Major
Rifampin Major
Metformin Moderate
Furosemide Moderate
Ibuprofen Moderate
Live vaccines Major
Phenytoin Moderate
Aspirin Moderate
Insulin Moderate

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Live vaccines
  • CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, ritonavir)
  • CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampin, carbamazepine)
  • Antidiabetic agents
  • Diuretics (e.g., furosemide)

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • NSAIDs
  • Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin)
  • Anticholinesterases (e.g., neostigmine)
  • Isoniazid

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol may increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding and ulceration when taken with corticosteroids. It is advisable to avoid alcohol during treatment with this medicine.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Systemic fungal infections","Known hypersensitivity to hydrocortisone or any component of the formulation","Administration of live vaccines during high-dose therapy","Premature infants with certain conditions (consult specialist)"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["Use with caution in patients with diabetes, hypertension, osteoporosis, or peptic ulcer disease.","Prolonged use can lead to adrenal suppression; taper gradually after long-term therapy.","May mask signs of infection and increase susceptibility to infections.","Can cause mood changes, including euphoria, depression, or psychosis.","Use with caution in patients with renal or hepatic impairment.","Avoid abrupt discontinuation after prolonged use.","Monitor growth in pediatric patients on long-term therapy."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Hydrocortisone is excreted in breast milk in small amounts. It is generally considered safe during breastfeeding, especially with short-term use. Consult your doctor for guidance.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose with hydrocortisone is unlikely to cause acute toxicity. Long-term overdose can lead to Cushing's syndrome. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. In case of acute overdose, monitor electrolytes and vital signs. Contact a poison control center if needed.

⏰ Missed Dose

This medicine is administered by a healthcare professional. If you miss a scheduled dose, contact your doctor or clinic immediately for guidance. Do not attempt to self-administer an extra dose.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

This medicine must be administered by a healthcare professional only. Do not attempt to self-inject. Inform your doctor about all your medical conditions, especially infections, diabetes, heart disease, or kidney disease. Avoid live vaccines while on this medicine. Do not stop abruptly if you have been on prolonged therapy; your doctor will taper the dose. Report any signs of infection, unusual weight gain, or mood changes immediately. Keep all follow-up appointments for monitoring.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients are at higher risk of osteoporosis, hyperglycemia, and fluid retention. Use the lowest effective dose and monitor closely for side effects. Falls prevention and bone health assessment are recommended.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning to become pregnant, discuss with your doctor. Hydrocortisone is generally considered safe in pregnancy when medically necessary, but the dose may need adjustment. Preconception counseling is advised.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

This medicine may be used during surgery to manage adrenal insufficiency or severe allergic reactions. It can also impair wound healing and increase infection risk postoperatively. Monitor surgical site closely.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist if you are taking or have recently taken this medicine, as it can affect healing and increase infection risk. Your dentist may recommend postponing elective procedures or taking precautions.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on your body.
🥗
Engage in regular low-impact exercise as advised by your doctor.
😴
Follow a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D to protect bone health.
💧
Monitor your blood sugar regularly if you are diabetic.
🧘
Get adequate rest and manage stress to support your immune system.
🌞
Avoid alcohol and smoking, as they can worsen side effects.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

While on this medicine, you may be more susceptible to infections and may experience muscle weakness. Avoid strenuous exercise if you feel unwell. Consult your doctor before starting any new exercise regimen.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Include calcium-rich foods like dairy and leafy greens to support bone health.
Limit sodium intake to reduce fluid retention.
Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables.
Monitor carbohydrate intake if you have diabetes.
Stay well hydrated unless advised otherwise.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine may cause dizziness, mood changes, or fatigue, which can affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid these activities until you know how the medicine affects you. Discuss any work-related concerns with your doctor.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop this medicine abruptly, especially if you have been on it for more than a few days. Your doctor will provide a tapering schedule to safely discontinue the medication. Consult your doctor before stopping.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine can lead to adrenal suppression, osteoporosis, cataracts, glaucoma, weight gain, and increased risk of infections. Regular monitoring of blood sugar, blood pressure, bone density, and eye health is recommended. The dose should be tapered gradually to avoid adrenal crisis.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Oral corticosteroids

For less severe conditions, oral prednisolone or hydrocortisone tablets may be used.

Evidence: Well-established
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

For inflammatory conditions, NSAIDs may be an alternative, but they have different side effect profiles.

Evidence: Well-established
Antihistamines

For mild allergic reactions, antihistamines are the first-line treatment.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

Live vaccines should be avoided during and for at least 1 month after high-dose corticosteroid therapy. Inactivated vaccines are generally safe but may have reduced efficacy. Consult your doctor before receiving any vaccine.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (20-25°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate or freeze

✅ DO

Keep in original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Protect from light

❌ DON'T

Do not store in direct sunlight

✅ DO

Check expiry date before use

❌ DON'T

Do not use if expired or discolored

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

When traveling with this medicine, carry it in its original packaging with the prescription label. Keep a copy of your prescription and a letter from your doctor explaining the medical need. Store it at room temperature, away from extreme heat or cold. If traveling across time zones, consult your doctor about adjusting the timing of doses. Check customs regulations for carrying injectable medications.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 35-year-old woman with a history of severe bee sting allergy
She was stung by a bee and developed hives and wheezing. In the emergency room, she received an injection of this medicine along with epinephrine. Her symptoms improved rapidly, and she was observed for a few hours before discharge. She was advised to carry an epinephrine auto-injector and to inform healthcare providers about her allergy.
💡 Lesson: This medicine is a crucial adjunct in managing severe allergic reactions, but it does not replace epinephrine as the first-line treatment.
👤 A 60-year-old man with adrenal insufficiency who missed his oral medication
He became weak, dizzy, and nauseous after missing his morning dose of oral hydrocortisone. He was taken to the hospital where he received an injection of this medicine. His symptoms resolved within an hour, and he was restarted on oral therapy with instructions on stress dosing.
💡 Lesson: Injectable hydrocortisone is life-saving in adrenal crisis and should be administered promptly when oral intake is not possible.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: When given intravenously, it works within minutes. When given intramuscularly, it may take up to 30-60 minutes to reach peak effect.

Q: How long will the effect last?

A: The anti-inflammatory effect can last from several hours to days, depending on the dose and your condition.

Q: Can I take this medicine at home?

A: No, this medicine must be administered by a healthcare professional in a clinical setting.

Q: Is it safe during pregnancy?

A: It is generally considered safe when medically necessary. Consult your doctor for personalized advice.

Q: What are the serious side effects I should watch for?

A: Seek immediate medical help if you experience difficulty breathing, severe abdominal pain, black stools, or signs of infection.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine if I have diabetes?
  • Will it affect my blood pressure?
  • Can I drive after receiving this injection?
  • Does it interact with my other medications?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while on this medicine?

🔄 Substitutes for lemcort 200mg injection

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: Hydrocortisone injection is a painkiller.
    Fact: It is not a painkiller but a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation and suppresses the immune system.
  • Myth: It can be self-administered like insulin.
    Fact: No, it must be given by a healthcare professional due to its potency and potential side effects.
  • Myth: It is safe to use for any minor allergy.
    Fact: It is reserved for severe allergic reactions; minor allergies are treated with antihistamines.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Hydrocortisone sodium succinate injection
  • Hydrocortisone acetate injection

Brand Alternatives

  • Solu-Cortef
  • Hydrocortone
  • Cortef

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Hydrocortisone injection","class":"Glucocorticoid","half_life":"1.5-2 hours","route":"Parenteral","main_use":"Adrenal insufficiency, severe allergies"},{"medicine":"Methylprednisolone injection","class":"Glucocorticoid","half_life":"2-3 hours","route":"Parenteral","main_use":"Inflammatory conditions, asthma"},{"medicine":"Dexamethasone injection","class":"Glucocorticoid","half_life":"3-4 hours","route":"Parenteral","main_use":"Cerebral edema, severe allergies"}]

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