Hydrocortisone Butyrate

• Inflammatory Skin Disorders
• Atopic dermatitis, eczema, contact dermatitis, and seborrheic dermatitis
• Reduces inflammation, redness, and pruritus associated with these conditions
• Allergic Dermatoses
• Mild to moderate allergic reactions affecting the skin
• Off-label / Clinically Accepted Uses
• Lichen planus, insect bite reactions, and localized psoriasis
• Adjunct therapy for mild steroid-responsive dermatoses with secondary bacterial infections (in combination with antibiotics if necessary)

• Topical Use Only
• Apply a thin layer 1–2 times daily to affected skin
• Duration: up to 2 weeks or as prescribed; prolonged use may increase risk of adverse effects
• Special Populations
• Children: Use with caution; avoid occlusive dressings and large area application
• Elderly: Monitor for skin thinning and systemic absorption
• Administration Instructions
• Clean and dry affected area before application
• Avoid contact with eyes, mucous membranes, or broken skin
• Wash hands after each application

Hydrocortisone butyrate is a potent topical corticosteroid that binds to intracellular glucocorticoid receptors, altering gene transcription. It suppresses the release of inflammatory mediators such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes, inhibits leukocyte migration, and reduces capillary permeability. These actions collectively decrease inflammation, erythema, and pruritus in affected skin areas.

• Absorption: Minimal systemic absorption through intact skin; absorption increases with occlusion or damaged skin
• Distribution: Primarily local; systemic levels generally negligible
• Metabolism: Metabolized in the liver to inactive metabolites
• Excretion: Excreted via urine as conjugated metabolites
• Onset: Anti-inflammatory effects visible within hours
• Duration: Clinical effects typically persist 12–24 hours, supporting once or twice daily application

• Pregnancy: Topical corticosteroid; considered Category C. Avoid large-area or prolonged use to minimize fetal exposure
• Lactation: Use cautiously; minimal systemic absorption expected, but avoid breast area application
• Caution: Data are limited; weigh risks vs benefits before use in pregnant or lactating women

• Primary Class: Topical corticosteroid
• Subclass: Medium-to-high potency corticosteroid

• Known hypersensitivity to hydrocortisone butyrate or formulation excipients
• Untreated bacterial, viral, or fungal skin infections
• Open wounds or extensive burns unless directed by a physician

• High-risk groups: Pediatric, elderly, pregnant, or lactating patients
• Potential risks: Skin atrophy, telangiectasia, striae, and systemic corticosteroid effects with prolonged use
• Monitoring: Observe for signs of infection, local irritation, or hypersensitivity
• Early warning signs: Rapid spread of rash, secondary infection, or systemic symptoms

• Local: Burning, stinging, itching, erythema
• Dermatologic: Skin thinning, telangiectasia, striae, hypertrichosis with prolonged use
• Allergic reactions: Contact dermatitis
• Rare/Serious: Secondary infections, systemic corticosteroid effects if absorbed extensively

• Other topical corticosteroids: Additive effects may increase local/systemic toxicity
• Immunosuppressive drugs: Monitor for enhanced immunosuppression if systemic absorption occurs
• Minimal systemic CYP450 interactions expected

• Recommended for short-term use only
• Labeling emphasizes caution in children, pregnant women, and use on thin or damaged skin
• Avoid occlusive dressings unless specifically prescribed
• Updated guidelines reinforce monitoring for local adverse effects and secondary infections

• Store at 20°C to 25°C (room temperature)
• Protect from light, moisture, and heat
• Keep container tightly closed and out of reach of children
• Avoid freezing and contamination