You cannot legally buy cortisol itself online as an over-the-counter (OTC) supplement — because cortisol is a prescription-only hormone medication, usually sold under names like hydrocortisone.
However, here’s a detailed breakdown of what you can and cannot get online, and what to be cautious of:
✅ What You Can Legally Buy Online:
1. Hydrocortisone Creams (OTC, topical)
- Available for minor skin conditions like rashes, eczema, itching, insect bites
- Common strengths: 0.5% or 1%
- Examples:
- Cortizone-10
- Aveeno 1% Hydrocortisone Anti-Itch Cream
🔒 These do not affect systemic cortisol levels — they act only on the skin.
2. Cortisol-Like Supplements (Non-prescription)
These supplements claim to “balance cortisol” or “support adrenal health,” but do not contain cortisol itself.
⚠️ Common ingredients:
- Adaptogens (Ashwagandha, Rhodiola, Holy Basil)
- Phosphatidylserine
- Licorice root extract
- B vitamins
- Magnesium
⚠️ These are not FDA-approved for treating cortisol disorders and effects may vary.
❌ What Requires a Prescription (Rx):
1. Oral Hydrocortisone / Cortisol Replacement
- Brand names: Cortef, Hydrocortone
- Used in:
- Addison’s disease
- Secondary adrenal insufficiency
- Adrenal crisis prevention
You need a prescription from a licensed doctor for these, even online via telehealth services.
2. Injectable Cortisol / Hydrocortisone
- For severe allergic reactions, adrenal crisis, or shock
- Brand: Solu-Cortef
- Strictly hospital/clinic use unless prescribed and taught to self-administer
⚠️ Warning About Buying Cortisol Online Without Prescription:
- Many websites that offer “real cortisol pills” without a prescription are illegal or unsafe:
- Risk of counterfeit drugs
- Possible contamination or incorrect dosage
- Legal risks if imported illegally
- Potential for serious side effects
✔️ Safe Online Options (if you need cortisol replacement):
If you legitimately need cortisol replacement, you can:
- See an endocrinologist or primary care doctor in person or online (telehealth)
- Get tested (e.g., ACTH stimulation test)
- Get a prescription for hydrocortisone
- Use a licensed online pharmacy or services
🔍 Summary Table:
| Product Type | Contains Cortisol | Available OTC? | Systemic Effect? | Legal to Buy Online? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hydrocortisone cream 1% | Yes (topical) | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Cortisol supplements (herbal) | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ❓ Mild (if any) | ✅ Yes |
| Oral hydrocortisone tablets | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ✅ With Rx only |
| Injectable hydrocortisone | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ✅ With Rx only |
| Black-market cortisol pills | ❓ Unknown | ❌ No | ✅ (but unsafe) | ❌ Illegal / Risky |
🩺 Final Tip:
If you suspect you have abnormal cortisol levels, don’t self-medicate. Get:
- Cortisol blood/saliva tests
- ACTH tests
- Proper diagnosis