What is the brand name for Hydrocortisone?
The brand name for Hydrocortisone is Cortizone-10.
PTCE Top 200 · #182
Hydrocortisone
Cortizone-10
Hydrocortisone is the generic name for the brand-name drug Cortizone-10. It is a topical corticosteroid (low potency) used to treat skin inflammation, itching. On the PTCE Top 200 drug list, Hydrocortisone ranks #182 and is one of the most frequently tested dermatology medications — commonly quizzed on its brand–generic pair, drug class, and key side effects.
| Generic name | Hydrocortisone |
|---|---|
| Brand name(s) | Cortizone-10 |
| Drug class | Topical corticosteroid (low potency) |
| Class group | Dermatology |
| Common use | skin inflammation, itching |
| DEA schedule | Unscheduled |
| Availability | OTC/Rx |
What is Hydrocortisone used for?
Topical corticosteroid for inflammatory and pruritic dermatoses; low-strength products are used OTC for minor skin irritation/itch.
What drug class is Hydrocortisone?
Hydrocortisone is a Topical corticosteroid (low potency) in the Dermatology group. Knowing the class is the fastest way to predict its uses, side effects, and the brand↔generic pairs the PTCE tests.
Common side effects of Hydrocortisone
- arrow_rightBurning
- arrow_rightItching
- arrow_rightDryness
- arrow_rightRedness
- arrow_rightIrritation
- arrow_rightSkin thinning with prolonged use
Major interactions
- arrow_rightOcclusive dressings increase absorption and systemic steroid effects (use as directed)
- arrow_rightOther topical irritants/steroids may increase irritation or systemic exposure if overused
Is Hydrocortisone a controlled substance?
No. Hydrocortisone is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
How to remember Hydrocortisone (PTCE mnemonic)
CORTI-zone-10 = CORTIcosteroid 1% — hydrocortisone is the LEAST potent topical steroid (OTC). Safe for face/folds/kids; ≤2 weeks; skin atrophy with overuse.
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PTCE exam tip
Hydrocortisone anchors the BOTTOM of the topical-steroid potency ladder — OTC at 1%, gentle enough for short courses — the deliberate contrast with super-potent clobetasol.
Hydrocortisone FAQ
What is Hydrocortisone used for?
Hydrocortisone is used to treat skin inflammation, itching. Topical corticosteroid for inflammatory and pruritic dermatoses; low-strength products are used OTC for minor skin irritation/itch.
What drug class is Hydrocortisone?
Hydrocortisone is a Topical corticosteroid (low potency) (Dermatology group).
Is Hydrocortisone a controlled substance?
No. Hydrocortisone is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
Related drugs in the Dermatology group
Drill Hydrocortisone the way the PTCE asks it
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Last reviewed June 25, 2026. Educational use only — not medical advice. Verify clinical specifics with your pharmacist or a current label source such as DailyMed. RxReflex is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).