Hydrocortisone Muco-Adhesive Tablets for Mouth Ulcers

Hydrocortisone muco-adhesive (buccal) tablets are a corticosteroid medication designed to treat

recurrent aphthous ulceration

(commonly known as mouth ulcers). These tablets stick to the ulcer site inside the mouth, releasing hydrocortisone directly to reduce soreness, inflammation, and speed up healing.

About Hydrocortisone Muco-Adhesive Tablets

Hydrocortisone is a mild steroid (corticosteroid) that mimics the body’s natural hormone cortisol. Unlike anabolic steroids, it works by suppressing inflammation and immune responses locally when applied as a muco-adhesive tablet. The tablet’s special formulation allows it to adhere to the moist surface of the mouth ulcer, dissolving slowly over time to deliver the active ingredient precisely where needed.

These tablets are particularly useful for

recurrent aphthous ulcers

, which are small, painful sores that appear inside the mouth, often on the cheeks, lips, tongue, or gums. While most mouth ulcers heal on their own within 7-10 days, hydrocortisone tablets can make them feel less sore within a few days and promote complete healing in up to 5 days.

They are available on prescription or over-the-counter from pharmacies for adults and children over 12 who know they have recurrent aphthous ulcers. Always confirm the ulcer type before use, as they are unsuitable for ulcers caused by dentures, injury, or infection.

Key Facts

• **Dosage**: Typically 4 tablets per day (one every 6 hours), placed directly on the ulcer for up to 5 days.
• **How it works**: Tablets dissolve slowly against the ulcer, releasing hydrocortisone to reduce pain and inflammation.
• **Healing time**: Soreness improves in a few days; full healing expected within 5 days.
• **Not for sucking or swallowing**: Must be allowed to dissolve in place to be effective.
• **Age suitability**: Adults, elderly, and children over 12; under 12s need doctor advice.
• **Duration**: Short-term use only (max 5 days); stop if healed earlier.

Who Can and Cannot Use Them

Hydrocortisone muco-adhesive tablets are suitable for most people with confirmed recurrent aphthous ulcers. However, they are not appropriate for everyone.

Do Not Use If:

• You are allergic to hydrocortisone or any ingredients in the tablet.
• You have a mouth infection (e.g., oral thrush, viral, or bacterial).
• The ulcer is caused by dentures (denture stomatitis), injury, or trauma.
• You are under 12 years without doctor supervision.

Use with Caution If:

• You have diabetes, as it may affect blood sugar control.
• You experience frequent or severe ulcers – consult a doctor first.
• You are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking other medications.

Always check with a doctor or pharmacist if ulcers recur quickly, persist after 5 days, or if you have underlying health conditions.

How and When to Use Hydrocortisone Muco-Adhesive Tablets

Follow these steps for safe and effective use:

1. Wash hands thoroughly before handling the tablet.
2. Place one tablet directly on top of the ulcer, as close as possible (upper or lower gum line works best).
3. Press gently with a clean finger or tongue for 30 seconds to ensure it sticks.
4. Leave it to dissolve slowly – do not chew, suck, or swallow.
5. Use up to 4 times daily (e.g., after meals and bedtime).
6. For multiple ulcers, move the tablet between sites but use only one at a time.
7. Continue for up to 5 days or until healed; see a doctor if no improvement.

Children over 12: Follow adult instructions or doctor’s advice.
Adults and Elderly: Standard dosing as above.

Patient Group	Dosage	Frequency	Max Duration
Adults >12 years	1 tablet per ulcer	4 times daily	5 days
Multiple ulcers	1 tablet, moved between ulcers	4 times daily	5 days
Under 12 years	Doctor’s advice only	N/A	N/A

Side Effects

These tablets are designed for local action, minimizing systemic side effects when used short-term directly on ulcers. However, possible issues include:

• Common: Mild local irritation or altered taste.
• Rare: Allergic reactions (rash, swelling), worsening diabetes, or mouth infections like thrush.
• With prolonged use: Thinning of oral mucosa or fungal overgrowth.

Stop use and seek medical help if you experience severe reactions. Oral thrush is a noted risk with corticosteroids.

Pregnancy, Breastfeeding, and Fertility

Limited data exists, but topical use is generally considered low-risk due to minimal absorption. Consult a doctor before use if pregnant or breastfeeding. No evidence suggests impact on fertility.

Using with Other Medicines

Hydrocortisone may interact with:

• Other corticosteroids or immunosuppressants – increases side effect risk.
• Diabetes medications – monitor blood sugar.
• Antifungals or antibiotics if infection is present.

Inform your doctor of all medicines, including herbal supplements.

Other Treatments for Mouth Ulcers

While hydrocortisone is effective for aphthous ulcers, alternatives include:

• Antiseptic mouthwashes: Chlorhexidine to prevent infection and aid healing.
• Local analgesics: Lidocaine ointment or benzydamine spray for pain relief.
• Protective pastes: Carmellose (Orabase®) to shield ulcers.
• Self-care: Soft toothbrush, avoid SLS toothpaste, stay hydrated, use straws.

For severe or recurrent cases, doctors may consider systemic options, though none are universally proven.

When to See a Doctor

• Ulcers persist beyond 5 days or worsen.
• Frequent recurrences (more than 3-4 times/year).
• Ulcers larger than 1cm, very painful, or with fever/swollen glands.
• Suspected underlying cause (e.g., medication side effect, nutritional deficiency).

About Mouth Ulcers

Mouth ulcers (aphthous stomatitis) affect up to 20% of the population recurrently. Triggers include stress, injury, acidic foods, vitamin deficiencies (B12, iron, folate), or hormonal changes. Most are self-limiting, but treatment improves quality of life.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How quickly do hydrocortisone tablets work?

A: Pain reduces within a few days; healing typically completes in 5 days.

Q: Can I eat or drink while the tablet dissolves?

A: Avoid eating/drinking for 30-60 minutes to allow full dissolution.

Q: Are they safe for children?

A: Over 12 years yes; under 12 requires doctor approval.

Q: What if I swallow the tablet?

A: It won’t work effectively; use a new one and ensure proper placement next time.

Q: Can they cause oral thrush?

A: Possible with corticosteroids; maintain oral hygiene and stop if white patches appear.

Q: Alternatives if tablets don’t work?

A: Try chlorhexidine mouthwash or see a doctor for other options like beclometasone spray.

Self-Care Tips for Mouth Ulcers

• Use a soft toothbrush and SLS-free toothpaste.
• Avoid spicy, acidic, or rough foods (chips, nuts).
• Drink plenty of fluids; use a straw to bypass ulcers.
• Manage stress and ensure good nutrition.