Hydrocortisone: What it treats and how to use it safely

Hydrocortisone is a steroid medicine used every day by millions — as a simple over-the-counter cream for itchy skin and as a lifesaving IV drug in hospitals. That range can be confusing: same name, different strength and very different risks. This page sorts out the basics so you can use hydrocortisone without surprises.

Where hydrocortisone helps

Topical hydrocortisone (creams and ointments) treats mild inflammation: eczema, contact dermatitis, insect bites, and allergic rashes. Low-strength 0.5%–1% creams are available without a prescription. Higher-strength topical versions and oral or injectable hydrocortisone are prescription-only and used for conditions like severe allergic reactions, asthma flares, and adrenal insufficiency (when the body can't make enough cortisol).

Know which form you have. A tube for a rash is not the same as a pill or injection. The dose, duration, and supervision matter more with oral and injected forms.

How to use hydrocortisone safely

Follow the label or your doctor’s instructions. For topical use, wash and dry the area, apply a thin layer, and rub it in gently. Use it sparingly: more product won’t speed healing and can cause skin thinning. Don’t cover the treated area with tight dressings unless a doctor tells you to.

Keep the cream off your face, groin, and armpits unless directed. These areas absorb more and are prone to side effects. For children, use the lowest effective strength and shortest time — kids absorb topical steroids more easily.

If you’re prescribed oral or injected hydrocortisone, never stop suddenly. Your body may need time to restart normal cortisol production. Ask your doctor about tapering doses when finishing a course. Also tell any treating clinician that you take steroids before surgery or if you’re sick; extra care may be needed.

Hydrocortisone won’t help infections like ringworm, scabies, or some bacterial skin problems and can make them worse. If a rash is spreading, weepy, or has blisters, see a clinician before applying steroids.

Common interactions and warnings: systemic steroids can raise blood sugar, affect mood, raise blood pressure, and suppress immunity. If you use other medicines (blood thinners, diabetes drugs, or certain vaccines), mention hydrocortisone to your provider.

Watch for serious signs: sudden swelling, trouble breathing, high fever, severe weakness, or fainting. These can be allergic reactions or adrenal crisis — seek emergency care.

Storage and disposal are simple: keep creams at room temperature and pills in their original bottle, away from kids. Don’t share prescription hydrocortisone with others.

Want to switch or stop? Talk to your doctor. For mild skin irritation, a short course of low-strength topical hydrocortisone often works well. For anything more serious or for long-term steroid use, you’ll need a plan from a clinician to avoid side effects and withdrawal problems.