What is the brand name for Hydrocortisone?
The brand name for Hydrocortisone is Cortizone-10.
PTCB 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).
Study guides that cover Hydrocortisone
Free, in-depth guides to the patterns behind this drug — no app needed.
Drug suffix cheat sheetthe suffix that gives away this drug's class
How to memorize the Top 200 drugsa method for locking in brand↔generic pairs
LASA (look-alike/sound-alike) drugsthe name pairs most often mixed up
Sig codes cheat sheetthe abbreviations on this drug's labelSee all PTCE study guides or browse the full Top 200 drug list.
Drill Hydrocortisone the way the PTCE asks it
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Related drugs in the Dermatology group
Written and reviewed by the RxReflex Content Team. 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).