Hydrocortisone Buccal Tablets

What are hydrocortisone buccal tablets?

Hydrocortisone buccal tablets are a type of steroid medicine used to treat inflammation in the mouth. They are designed to dissolve slowly when placed against the affected site such as inside of the cheek (buccal area) or against an ulcer, allowing the medicine to act directly on the affected area. The most common brand name in the UK is Corlan. They can either be prescribed by your doctor or bought in pharmacies, however, due to a supply issue, they are not currently available. If you have been prescribed this medication, speak to your doctor for an alternative[1]. 

You can also find advice here on hydrocortisone, hydrocortisone tablets, hydrocortisone for piles, hydrocortisone for skin, hydrocortisone rectal foam, and hydrocortisone injections. 

What are hydrocortisone buccal tablets used for?

Hydrocortisone buccal tablets are primarily used to treat the following conditions[1]: 

• Mouth ulcers, especially those caused by inflammation or autoimmune conditions 

• Oral lichen planus, a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the mucous membranes inside the mouth 

They help reduce pain, swelling, and redness associated with these conditions. 

How do hydrocortisone buccal tablets work?

Hydrocortisone is a corticosteroid, which mimics the effects of hormones your body naturally produces in the adrenal glands. It works in several ways[1]:

• Reducing inflammation 

• Suppressing the immune response in the affected area 

• Relieving pain and discomfort caused by ulcers or lesions 

Who can take hydrocortisone buccal tablets?

Most adults and children over 1 month can use hydrocortisone buccal tablets, although children under 12 should only use them if prescribed by a doctor. Speak to your doctor first if you[1]: 

• Are allergic to hydrocortisone 

• Cannot digest lactose 

• Have a mouth infection or injury 

• Wear dentures 

• Keep getting mouth ulcers that get worse 

• Have ulcers elsewhere on your body,  

• Have ulcers unlike any ulcer you have had before, lasts longer than three weeks, bleeds, or you have painful and swollen joints 

• Are pregnant or trying to get pregnant 

• Are taking medications that may affect bloods such as methotrexate 

Please tell your doctor or pharmacist about any conditions you may have or medication you take before you start treatment, and always follow the instructions in the Patient Information Leaflet[2].  

What is the typical dosage of hydrocortisone buccal tablets?

Each hydrocortisone buccal tablet contains 2.5mg of hydrocortisone. Typical dosage instructions are as follows[1]: 

• One tablet, placed against the ulcer or affected sitetwo to four times a day, depending on severity. If you have more than one ulcer, do not use more than one tablet at a time and instead move the single tablet around to each ulcer. You should not use more than four tablets per day 

• Treatment usually lasts up to 5 days, but your doctor may advise differently 

Do not exceed the prescribed dose. 

How do you take hydrocortisone buccal tablets?

To use the tablets correctly, follow these steps[1]:

• Place the tablet in your mouth where required such as against an ulcer 

• Let it dissolve slowly – do not chew or swallow it whole 

• Avoid eating or drinking until the tablet has fully dissolved 

• Try to leave a hap of 3 to 4 hours between tablets 

Can you stop taking hydrocortisone buccal tablets?

Yes, you can stop once your symptoms improve or as advised by your doctor or pharmacist. Since it's a short-term treatment, no tapering is usually needed. 

What do you do if you take too much hydrocortisone buccal tablets?

Taking too many tablets may increase the risk of side effects, such as[1]: 

• Thinning of the mouth lining 

• Increased susceptibility to infections 

Contact your GP or call NHS 111 if you think you've taken too much. 

What do you do if you forget to take hydrocortisone buccal tablets?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed one – do not double up[1]. 

How do I store hydrocortisone buccal tablets?

Proper storage is important[1]:

• Store in a cool, dry place, below 25°C 

• Keep away from moisture and direct sunlight 

• Keep out of reach of children 

What medicines can’t you take with hydrocortisone buccal tablets?

Hydrocortisone buccal tablets may interact with other medicines. Use caution with[1]: 

• Other steroid medicines 

• Immunosuppressants 

• Antifungal or antibiotic treatments for oral infections 

Always inform your doctor or pharmacist about all medications and supplements you take before you start a new medicine, and follow the instructions in the Patient Information Leaflet[2]. 

What are the side effects of hydrocortisone buccal tablets?

Common side effects include[1]: 

• Mild irritation or burning in the mouth 

• Dry mouth 

• Thinning of the mouth lining with prolonged use 

Rare but serious side effects[1]: 

• Allergic reactions (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing) 

• Oral infections due to suppressed immunity 

You should contact your GP if you experience any of these symptoms. In rare cases, the medicine may cause a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). You should call 999 or visit A&E immediately if you believe this is happening[1]. 

Symptoms of anaphylaxis include[1]:  

• Difficulty breathing  

• Tightness in throat and chest  

• Swelling of the tongue or throat  

• Feeling faint or dizzy  

• Blue/grey skin or lips  

• Loss of consciousness 

If you experience any side effects, including those not listed, you are encouraged to report them via the Yellow Card Scheme or contact your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse. This information is intended as a summary for general awareness and does not replace professional medical advice. 

The information provided in the side effects section is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects associated with this medication. For a complete list of side effects, please refer to the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) provided with your medication or consult your healthcare professional[2]. 

Frequently asked questions about hydrocortisone buccal tablets

Can I eat or drink while using the tablet? 
No – wait until it has fully dissolved as eating or drinking may remove the tablet from where it is needed[1]. 

Can children use hydrocortisone buccal tablets? 
They’re usually for ages 12 and over, unless prescribed by a specialist[1]. 

Is it safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding? 
Consult your pharmacist or GP – use only if clearly needed[1]. 

Can I use hydrocortisone buccal tablets for cold sores? 
No – it’s not effective against viral infections[1]. 

How long do they take to work? 
Relief often begins within 1-2 days[1]. 

Can I use hydrocortisone buccal tablets with painkillers? 
Yes but check with your pharmacist[1]. 

Are hydrocortisone buccal tablets addictive? 
No – they’re not habit-forming[1]. 

What if symptoms persist? 
See your GP – long-term use may not be suitable and your symptoms may have an underlying cause that needs investigating[1]. 

For the official NHS guide to hydrocortisone buccal tablets, visit their website.

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