Loading compound...

Glucocorticoid

Hydrocortisone Butyrate is a topical corticosteroid cream used to relieve skin inflammation and itching caused by certain skin conditions. It works by acting on glucocorticoid receptors to reduce swelling and irritation.

How it worksIt works by acting on glucocorticoid receptors to reduce inflammation, itching, and blood vessel constriction in the skin.

Brand names:LOCOID LIPOCREAM, LOCOID

Used for
Relief of skin inflammationRelief of skin itchingManagement of corticosteroid-responsive skin diseases
Conditions
Corticosteroid-responsive dermatosesPsoriasis
Class
CorticosteroidGlucocorticoidIntegumentary (Skin)

How to take

FormsCream, Ointment
RoutesTopical

Apply a thin layer to the affected area 2 or 3 times a day, depending on how severe the condition is.

Occlusive dressings (like bandages) may be used for psoriasis or stubborn conditions, but if an infection starts, stop using the dressings and seek medical care.

Key warnings

  • ·Children may be more sensitive to this medication, which can lead to growth delays or hormone issues.
  • ·Using occlusive dressings can increase how much of the drug is absorbed into your body.

Side effects

Common

BurningItchingIrritationDrynessSkin thinningAcne-like bumpsChanges in skin color

Serious

  • ·Skin infection
  • ·Skin atrophy (thinning)
  • ·HPA-axis suppression (in children)
  • ·Cushing's syndrome (in children)

Seek help if

  • ·If an infection develops while using occlusive dressings, stop using them and seek medical care.

Special populations

PregnancyUse during pregnancy only if the potential benefit outweighs the risk to the baby. Large amounts or long-term use should be avoided.

BreastfeedingIt is not known if enough of the drug passes into breast milk, so use caution when applying to the skin while nursing.

PediatricChildren may be more sensitive to this drug, which can lead to hormone suppression, growth retardation, or weight gain issues.

Talk to your doctor

Monitor

  • ·Signs of skin infection
  • ·Skin thinning or changes in color
  • ·Signs of hormone changes in children

Questions to ask

  • ·Is this safe for my child's skin?
  • ·Can I use bandages over the cream?
  • ·How will this affect my skin thickness?

Pharmacokinetics

Protein bindingCorticosteroids are bound to plasma proteins in varying degrees.
MetabolismMetabolized primarily in the liver.
ExcretionExcreted by the kidneys.

Practical

StorageStore between 36° to 86°F.

Ingredients

Inactive

Mineral oilPolyethylene glycol

Educational summary derived from FDA labeling, AI-assisted. Not medical advice — consult a healthcare professional. Updated 2026-04-25.