Daktacort Hydrocortisone Cream

Quantity	1 x 15g, 2 x 15g, 3 x 15g

What is Daktacort Hydrocortisone cream?

Daktacort cream is suitable for use by children and adults over the age of 10 to treat fungal and certain bacterial skin infections, including those caused by athlete’s foot, thrush, and eczema.

Unlike other antifungal treatments, Daktacort cream contains the steroid hydrocortisone, which not only targets and eliminates the fungi or bacteria causing the infection but also helps to quickly reduce itching, redness, and inflammation.

If you have a fungal infection without signs of inflammation, you might find a cream without hydrocortisone, such as Daktarin, to be more appropriate. Daktarin cream is also available from MedicalMojo.co.uk.

What are the active ingredienst in Dakatcort Hydrocortisone cream?

The active ingredients in 1 g of Daktacort Hydrocortisone Cream are: Miconazole nitrate 20 mg and Hydrocortisone acetate equivalent to 10 mg of hydrocortisone.

What is Daktacort Hydrocortisone cream used for?

Daktacort Hydrocortisone Cream is applied directly to the skin to treat fungal or bacterial infections associated with conditions like eczema, dermatitis, and athlete’s foot. In addition to these uses, Daktacort cream is highly effective in treating thrush in areas where skin irritation occurs due to friction, such as under the armpits, beneath the breasts, or in the groin folds. However, you should avoid using Daktacort cream on the genitals or anus, as the steroid content may irritate sensitive skin in these areas. For genital thrush, alternative treatments are available on our Thrush Symptoms and Treatment page. It's important to note that Daktacort cream is not recommended for treating ringworm, as the steroid can potentially worsen the condition. For ringworm, antifungal treatments containing clotrimazole are more appropriate and are also effective in treating nappy rash caused by fungal infections.

How does Daktacort Hydrocortisone cream work?

Daktacort cream is designed for direct application to the affected skin, allowing it to rapidly target the source of infection. This targeted approach helps to quickly alleviate symptoms such as itching, irritation, and inflammation, providing visible relief. The cream contains two active ingredients:

Miconazole nitrate, an antifungal agent that works by effectively destroying the fungus responsible for the infection. In addition to its antifungal properties, miconazole also combats certain bacteria that may be present on the skin, further aiding in the treatment of the infection.
Hydrocortisone, a mild corticosteroid, is the second active ingredient in Daktacort cream. Hydrocortisone plays a crucial role in reducing the inflammation, swelling, redness, and itching that often accompany skin infections. By soothing the skin and reducing these symptoms, hydrocortisone helps to promote faster healing and restore comfort to the affected area.

How do you use the Daktacort Hydrocortisone cream?

Please refer to the following table to determine the correct amount of medicine to use.

For external use only: This means the cream should be applied directly to the affected area of skin.
Do not exceed the recommended dosage as indicated in the table.

How to Apply the Cream

Clean the affected area: Wash the infected area thoroughly and dry it well. As many skin conditions are contagious, it's important to use a separate towel and flannel for yourself to prevent spreading the infection to others.
Apply the cream: Gently rub the cream onto the infected area and the surrounding skin.
Wash your hands: Unless the infected area is on your hands, wash your hands carefully after applying the cream. This helps prevent the spread of infection to other parts of your body or to others. Additionally, wash and change any clothing that comes into contact with the infected area, such as socks, frequently.

It is advisable to wear cotton underwear if it is likely to come into contact with the cream, as the cream may damage some synthetic fabrics.

Dosage Instructions

Adults and children aged 10 years and over:
- Apply a small amount of the cream to the affected area twice daily. Gently rub it in until it is fully absorbed.
- Do not use the cream for more than 7 days.
- If symptoms persist, consult your doctor.

In Case of Accidental Ingestion

If someone accidentally swallows Daktacort Hydrocortisone Cream, seek immediate medical attention by contacting a doctor or going to the nearest Accident and Emergency department. Bring the product packaging and this leaflet with you.

If You Miss a Dose

If you forget to apply the cream, simply apply the next dose as needed. Do not use a double dose to make up for the missed application.

Who should not use Daktacort Hydrocortisone cream?

This medicine is suitable for most adults and children, but certain individuals should not use it. If you have any concerns or doubts, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Do Not Use This Medicine If:

You are allergic to the active ingredient, other similar antifungal medicines, or any of the other ingredients in this product, please refer to the patient information leaflet.
You have other skin conditions such as cold sores, acne, herpes, chickenpox, or shingles.
Your skin is broken.
You intend to apply it to large areas of your body, under dressings, or in a baby's nappies.
You need to use it for more than 7 days.
You plan to apply it on your face, eyes, or mucous membranes.
You need to use it on the anal or genital areas, unless directed by your doctor.
The patient is a child under 10 years old, unless advised by a doctor.
You are treating ringworm, unless instructed by your doctor.
You are treating any secondary infections resulting from the original condition, unless advised by your doctor.

If any of these apply to you, seek advice from a doctor or pharmacist before using Daktacort Hydrocortisone Cream.

Special Considerations for Elderly Patients:

Medicines like Daktacort Hydrocortisone Cream can cause skin thinning if used for an extended period without a break. Since skin thinning naturally occurs with age, elderly patients should use this medicine sparingly for up to 7 days.

Consult Your Doctor or Pharmacist If You Are Taking:

Oral anticoagulants (blood thinners), such as warfarin.

If you’re uncertain about any medications you’re taking, show the packaging or bottle to your pharmacist.

If You Are Pregnant or Breastfeeding:

Consult your doctor or pharmacist before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Important Warnings About This Medicine:

Avoid contact with the eyes. If contact occurs, rinse with water immediately.
Daktacort may cause severe allergic reactions. Be aware of the signs of an allergic reaction while using this product. Refer to the section on ‘Possible Side Effects.’
Do not use for more than 7 days.
Contact your doctor if you experience blurred vision or other visual disturbances.
If you use a barrier method of contraception (such as condoms or diaphragms), avoid contact with the cream, as the ingredients may damage the rubber, potentially reducing its effectiveness in preventing pregnancy or sexually transmitted diseases.

Ingredients That May Cause Issues:

This medicine contains 2 mg of benzoic acid (E210) per gram, which may cause local irritation.
Butylated hydroxyanisole (E320) may cause local skin reactions (e.g., contact dermatitis) or irritation to the eyes and mucous membranes.

What are the side effects with Daktacort Hydrocortisone cream?

Daktacort Hydrocortisone Cream, like all medicines, can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them, and they are usually mild.

Stop using the medicine and seek immediate medical help if you experience:

Frequency not known:

Severe allergic reactions, including swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Lightheadedness, generalized itching, wheezing, or difficulty breathing.

Stop using the medicine and consult your doctor if you experience:

Uncommon (affects fewer than 1 in 100 people):

Skin irritation, burning sensation, itchy skin, or hives (also known as nettle rash or urticaria).

Frequency not known:

Blurred vision, sensitivity reactions at the application site, skin rash, redness, inflammation, or lighter patches of skin.

Other possible side effects include:

Uncommon:

Irritability in children.

Reporting Side Effects

If you experience any side effects, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse. This includes any possible side effects not listed in this leaflet. You can also report side effects directly via the Yellow Card Scheme at www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or by searching for "MHRA Yellow Card" in the Google Play or Apple App Store. Reporting side effects helps provide more information on the safety of this medicine.

Does Daktacort Hydrocortisone cream interact with other medicines?

Daktacort Hydrocortisone Cream is generally used topically, and because of this, the likelihood of interactions with other medicines is low. However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind:

Oral Anticoagulants: If you are taking blood thinners (such as warfarin), there may be a potential for interaction. Though this is more relevant to oral or systemic corticosteroids, it is still advisable to inform your doctor if you are using anticoagulants while applying Daktacort cream.
Other Topical Medications: If you are using other topical treatments on the same area of skin, it's important to consult with your doctor or pharmacist. Using multiple topical medications simultaneously may affect how each medicine works or increase the risk of skin irritation.
Systemic Absorption: Although rare, if Daktacort is applied to large areas of skin, used under occlusive dressings, or used for an extended period, there is a risk that the active ingredients could be absorbed into the bloodstream, potentially leading to interactions similar to those seen with oral corticosteroids.

To ensure safe use, always inform your doctor or pharmacist about all the medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter products, herbal supplements, and other topical treatments.

Daktacort Hydrocortisone cream FAQs

What is Daktacort Cream?

Daktacort cream is a topical treatment for fungal and some bacterial skin infections, suitable for children and adults over the age of 10. It is commonly used to treat conditions such as athlete’s foot, thrush, and eczema. Unlike many other antifungal creams, Daktacort also contains hydrocortisone, a steroid that helps to rapidly reduce itching, redness, and inflammation in addition to eliminating the infection. If you have a fungal infection without signs of inflammation, a cream without hydrocortisone, such as Daktarin, may be more appropriate.

What is Daktacort Cream used for?

Daktacort cream is applied directly to the skin to treat fungal or bacterial infections caused by eczema, dermatitis, and athlete’s foot. It is also effective for treating thrush in areas where the skin rubs together, such as under the arms, beneath the breasts, or in the groin. Daktacort should not be used on the genitals or anus due to its steroid content, which can irritate sensitive skin in these areas. For genital thrush, alternative treatments are available on our Thrush Symptoms and Treatment page. Daktacort is not recommended for treating ringworm, as the steroid may worsen the condition. Instead, antifungal treatments containing clotrimazole are more suitable for ringworm and nappy rash caused by fungi.

Can Daktacort Cream be used on the face?

Daktacort cream should not be used on the face unless prescribed by a doctor. The hydrocortisone in the cream can cause damage to sensitive facial skin. If you have eczema or another skin condition affecting your face, consult your doctor or pharmacist for appropriate treatment.

How does Daktacort Cream work?

Daktacort cream is applied directly to the infected area, targeting the source of infection. It quickly reduces symptoms such as itching, irritation, and inflammation. The cream contains miconazole nitrate, an antifungal agent that destroys the fungus responsible for the infection and associated bacteria. Hydrocortisone, a mild corticosteroid, helps reduce inflammation, swelling, redness, and itching.

How do I apply Daktacort Cream?

For adults and children over 10 years old:

Apply a small amount of Daktacort cream to the affected area twice daily.
Rub the cream gently into the skin until it is absorbed.
Use the cream for 7 days. If symptoms persist or worsen after 7 days, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Daktacort should only be applied to the infected skin and surrounding area. Avoid using it on the face, genitals, or anus. Always wash your hands thoroughly before and after applying the cream to prevent spreading the infection.

How long does Daktacort Cream take to work?

You should notice an improvement in your skin infection and a reduction in inflammation within 7 days of using Daktacort cream. Do not use the cream for more than 7 days. If your condition does not improve, seek advice from a healthcare professional.

What are the ingredients in Daktacort Cream?

Daktacort cream contains the active ingredients miconazole nitrate (20 mg) and hydrocortisone acetate (10 mg equivalent). It also includes inactive ingredients such as liquid paraffin, butylhydroxyanisole, and benzoic acid.

What are the possible side effects of Daktacort Cream?

Side effects from Daktacort cream are uncommon and usually mild. They may include:

Skin irritation
Burning sensation
Itchy skin or rash
Blurred vision
Inflammation or lighter patches of skin

If you experience severe side effects or an allergic reaction, such as swelling or difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical attention. For a full list of side effects, refer to the Patient Information Leaflet.

Are there any warnings or precautions for using Daktacort Cream?

Before using Daktacort cream, read the Patient Information Leaflet thoroughly. Do not use the cream if you have other skin conditions like cold sores, acne, herpes, chickenpox, or shingles, or if your skin is broken. The cream should be used sparingly in elderly patients due to the risk of skin thinning. If you are currently taking any other medications, consult a healthcare professional before using Daktacort.

Can I use Daktacort Cream during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding and suffering from a fungal skin infection, consult your doctor or pharmacist before using Daktacort cream.

Does Daktacort Cream affect contraception?

Daktacort cream may damage rubber contraceptives, such as condoms or diaphragms, making them less effective. This could increase the risk of pregnancy or transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).