Hydrocortisone

Corticosteroid (Low Potency)

Also known as: Cortisol, Hydrocortisone acetate

Description

Hydrocortisone is a low-potency topical corticosteroid identical to endogenous cortisol. It is the mildest prescription-strength steroid and is available over-the-counter in many countries. [Rathi 2012]

Mechanism of Action

Binds to intracellular glucocorticoid receptors, translocating to the nucleus and modulating gene expression. Suppresses phospholipase A2, reducing prostaglandin and leukotriene synthesis. Inhibits inflammatory cell migration and cytokine release. [Rathi 2012]

Indications

Available Concentrations

0.5%1%2.5%

Side Effects

Contraindications

  • Untreated bacterial or fungal infections [Hengge]
  • Rosacea [Rathi]
  • Perioral dermatitis
  • Ulcerated skin

Pregnancy Category

C [Rathi 2012]

Found In

Drugs containing Hydrocortisone

CortaidHydrocortisone CreamKenacortTriamcinolone Acetonide InjectionTricortTriamcinolone Acetonide Injection

Cosmetics containing Hydrocortisone

Advantan Cream (Methylprednisolone Aceponate 0.1%)BayerDaivobet Ointment (Calcipotriol 0.005% + Betamethasone 0.05%)LEO PharmaDesonate Gel (Desonide 0.05%)GlenmarkDiprovate Cream (Betamethasone Dipropionate 0.05%)Abbott IndiaElidel Cream (Pimecrolimus 1%)Viatris (Meda)Elocon Cream (Mometasone Furoate 0.1%)MSD (Organon)Eucrisa Ointment (Crisaborole 2%)PfizerEukroma Plus Cream (Hydroquinone 2% + Tretinoin 0.025% + Mometasone 0.1%)Dr. Reddy'sEumovate Cream (Clobetasone Butyrate 0.05%)GlaxoSmithKlineFlutivate Cream (Fluticasone Propionate 0.05%)GlaxoSmithKlineFusiderm B Cream (Fusidic Acid 2% + Betamethasone 0.1%)GlenmarkHalovate Cream (Halobetasol Propionate 0.05%)GlenmarkLocoid Cream (Hydrocortisone Butyrate 0.1%)CheplapharmOpzelura Cream (Ruxolitinib 1.5%)IncyteTacroz Ointment (Tacrolimus 0.03% / 0.1%)GlenmarkTenovate Cream (Clobetasol Propionate 0.05%)GlaxoSmithKlineTri-Luma Cream (Fluocinolone 0.01% + Hydroquinone 4% + Tretinoin 0.05%)Galderma

Related Conditions

Atopic Dermatitis Low-potency corticosteroid for flare management Psoriasis Mild corticosteroid for facial/flexural psoriasis Seborrheic Dermatitis Mild steroid for facial involvement Contact Dermatitis First-line low-potency topical steroid for mild cases

References

  1. Hengge UR, Ruzicka T, Schwartz RA, et al. "Adverse effects of topical glucocorticosteroids." J Am Acad Dermatol, 2006. doi:10.1016/j.jaad.2005.01.010
  2. Rathi SK, D'Souza P. "Rational and ethical use of topical corticosteroids based on safety and efficacy." Indian J Dermatol, 2012. doi:10.4103/0019-5154.96655

Limitations

This page provides a general overview of Hydrocortisone in dermatology. It does not cover every possible use, formulation, or interaction. Individual responses to compounds vary — what works for one person may not work for another. Always consult a qualified dermatologist before starting or changing any treatment.