Last reviewed 2026-04-22 · How we verify

Hydrocortisone Butyrate 0.1% Cream

Hydrocortisone butyrate is a topical corticosteroid that suppresses local inflammatory and immune responses in the skin.

Hydrocortisone butyrate is a topical corticosteroid that suppresses local inflammatory and immune responses in the skin. Used for Inflammatory and pruritic dermatoses responsive to topical corticosteroids (e.g., eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis).

At a glance

Mechanism of action

Hydrocortisone butyrate is an ester prodrug of hydrocortisone that binds to glucocorticoid receptors in skin cells, inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and mediators. This reduces inflammation, itching, and erythema in dermatological conditions. The butyrate ester enhances skin penetration and provides sustained local activity with reduced systemic absorption compared to unesterified hydrocortisone.

Approved indications

• Inflammatory and pruritic dermatoses responsive to topical corticosteroids (e.g., eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis)

Common side effects

• Local skin atrophy
• Striae
• Telangiectasia
• Folliculitis
• Burning or stinging at application site

Key clinical trials

• A Study of Crisaborole Ointment 2%; Crisaborole Vehicle; TCS and TCI in Subjects Aged ≥ 2 Years, With Mild-moderate AD (PHASE4)
• Local Steroid Treatment for Idiopathic Granulomatous Mastitis (LSTIGM) (PHASE4)
• Evaluation of the Vasoconstriction Properties of MC2-01 Cream (PHASE1)
• Efficacy and Steroid Sparing Potential Study of DGLA Cream in Early Childhood Patients With Moderate to Severe Atopic Dermatitis (PHASE2)
• Medical and Surgical Treatment for Idiopathic Granulomatous Mastitis (PHASE4)
• Adherence to Topical Hydrocortisone 17-butyrate 0.1% (Locoid®) Using Different Vehicles in Adults With Atopic Dermatitis (PHASE4)
• Vasoconstriction Trial With LEO 90100 Aerosol Foam (PHASE1)

Primary sources

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