Last reviewed 2026-04-22 · How we verify

Hydrocortisone butyrate cream, 0.1%

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 manifestations of corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses (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 other signs of dermatitis. The butyrate ester enhances skin penetration and provides sustained local activity with minimal systemic absorption.

Approved indications

• Inflammatory and pruritic manifestations of corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses (e.g., eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis)

Common side effects

• Skin atrophy
• Striae
• Telangiectasia
• Local irritation or burning
• Folliculitis

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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