Solu-cortef Inj
General Drug Information and Indications
Hydrocortisone sodium succinate injectable for acute anti-inflammatory/immunosuppressive therapy; adrenal insufficiency and anaphylaxis.
Hydrocortisone sodium succinate injectable (water-soluble rapid-acting corticosteroid). Mechanism: glucocorticoid receptor agonist with both glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid activity → acute anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressive, and vasopressor support. Rapid IV onset. Short duration (4–6 hrs); follow with oral prednisolone for sustained effect. Used for Addisonian crisis and anaphylaxis.
Key information
Hydrocortisone sodium succinate — soluble injectable corticosteroid. Refrigerate reconstituted solution; use within 3 days. IV or IM administration. Short-acting — dose multiple times daily if needed.
How to Give this Medication
IV: dilute sodium succinate in compatible IV fluid; Administer IV slowly; rapid infusion may cause adverse reactions. IM: inject deep IM. For anaphylaxis or shock: administer IV rapidly as single bolus followed by CRI. Store at room temperature; protect from light.
If a dose is missed
This medication is administered by a veterinarian or veterinary staff in a clinical setting. Missed doses are managed by your veterinary team — contact your veterinarian to reschedule.
Side Effects
Rapid IV: cardiovascular events (hypotension, arrhythmias) — administer slowly. Sodium/fluid retention (mineralocorticoid activity). Short-acting: HPA suppression less prolonged than long-acting agents. Single-use emergency doses: minimal chronic side effect concerns.
Precautions
For animals
Monitor for GI ulceration; use with caution in animals with GI disease. Avoid in pregnant animals. Do not use concurrently with other NSAIDs or corticosteroids. Short-acting — administer IV slowly. Monitor blood pressure.
For people handling this medication
Wear gloves when handling. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Corticosteroid injectable — administered by veterinary staff. Keep out of reach of children. Pregnant women and women of childbearing age should avoid contact. Wear gloves.
Overdose
Contact your veterinarian. Corticosteroid overdose causes metabolic disturbances and immunosuppression.
Solu-cortef Inj dosage forms
| Product | Strength | Form | Size | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOLU-CORTEF INJ 100MG | 100 MG | Injectable | 1 | Commercial |
| SOLU-CORTEF INJ 100MG - PER VIAL | 100 MG | Injectable | 1 | Commercial |
Sources
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. Source: Merck Veterinary Manual – Corticosteroids in Animals (https://www.merckvetmanual.com/pharmacology/inflammation/corticosteroids-in-animals); Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook (Plumb, D.C., app.plumbs.com)