What are the contraindications of hydrocortisone injection?
Nov 25, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Lei
Introduction
Core contraindications for hydrocortisone injection include: hypersensitivity to the product, patients with severe psychiatric disorders, those with active peptic ulcers, individuals with recent surgical history or in the wound healing phase, and patients with severe hypertension. This injection must be used strictly according to medical instructions, and a complete medical and medication history should be disclosed to the physician prior to administration.
Contraindications for hydrocortisone injection primarily include: hypersensitivity to the product, patients with severe psychiatric disorders, those with active peptic ulcers, individuals with recent surgical history or in the tissue repair phase after trauma, and patients with severe hypertension. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Hypersensitivity to the product: Patients who have previously developed allergic reactions—such as rash, itching, or dyspnea—after exposure to hydrocortisone or any excipient in the injection—must absolutely avoid its use. Allergic reactions may rapidly progress to life-threatening conditions such as laryngeal edema or anaphylactic shock.
2. Severe psychiatric disorders: The drug may affect the central nervous system, inducing or exacerbating symptoms such as agitation, restlessness, hallucinations, and other psychiatric manifestations. In patients with severe psychiatric illness, administration may lead to rapid clinical deterioration, interfering with standard treatment and disease stability.
3. Active peptic ulcer disease: The medication stimulates gastric acid and pepsin secretion while weakening the protective gastric mucosal barrier. In patients with active gastric or duodenal ulcers, its use may worsen ulceration and increase the risk of serious complications such as bleeding or perforation.
4. Recent surgical history or during trauma recovery: The drug suppresses protein synthesis and delays tissue repair. In patients who have recently undergone surgery or are in the healing phase after trauma, its use may impair granulation tissue formation at wound sites, prolong healing time, and increase susceptibility to infection.
5. Severe hypertension: The drug can cause sodium and water retention, leading to increased blood volume and further elevation of blood pressure. In patients with severe hypertension, administration may exceed safe blood pressure thresholds, potentially triggering serious cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events such as cerebral hemorrhage or heart failure.
Hydrocortisone injection must be used strictly according to medical instructions. A complete medical and medication history should be disclosed prior to use. Regular monitoring of blood pressure, electrolytes, and other relevant parameters is essential during treatment to ensure patient safety.
