When Locoid Isn't Available, You Still Have Good Options

Your doctor prescribed Locoid (Hydrocortisone Butyrate 0.1%) for your skin condition, but you can't find it at your pharmacy. Maybe it's out of stock, maybe it's too expensive without insurance, or maybe your plan doesn't cover it. Whatever the reason, you're wondering: what else can I use?

The good news is that there are several effective alternatives in the same class of medications. Let's walk through what Locoid is, how it works, and which alternatives might be right for you.

What Is Locoid?

Locoid is the brand name for Hydrocortisone Butyrate 0.1%, a mid-potency topical corticosteroid made by Bausch Health. It's available as a cream, ointment, lipocream, and topical solution.

Doctors prescribe Locoid for inflammatory skin conditions including:

• Eczema (atopic dermatitis)
• Contact dermatitis
• Seborrheic dermatitis
• Other corticosteroid-responsive skin conditions

It's considered a Group V (mid-potency) topical steroid on the seven-class potency scale, making it strong enough to treat moderate inflammation while being gentle enough for use on somewhat sensitive areas under medical supervision.

How Does Locoid Work?

Hydrocortisone Butyrate works by reducing inflammation at the cellular level. When applied to the skin, it:

• Suppresses the immune response in the treated area
• Reduces redness, swelling, and itching
• Inhibits the release of inflammatory chemicals like prostaglandins and leukotrienes
• Decreases the migration of immune cells to the inflamed area

The "butyrate" ester gives it better skin penetration than regular hydrocortisone, which is why prescription Hydrocortisone Butyrate is significantly more effective than the over-the-counter hydrocortisone you can buy at a drugstore.

For a deeper dive, read our article on how Locoid works.

Alternatives to Locoid

The following medications are commonly used as alternatives to Locoid. Always talk to your doctor before switching medications — the right choice depends on your specific condition, the area of skin being treated, and your medical history.

1. Triamcinolone Acetonide 0.1% (Cream or Ointment)

Potency: Mid-potency (Group IV-V)
Available as: Cream, ointment, lotion
Generic: Yes — widely available
Typical cost: $5-$20 for generic

Triamcinolone Acetonide is one of the most commonly prescribed topical corticosteroids in the United States. It's effective for many of the same conditions as Locoid, including eczema, dermatitis, and psoriasis. Its biggest advantage is availability and cost — generic Triamcinolone is stocked at virtually every pharmacy and is very affordable.

It's often the first-line mid-potency topical steroid that doctors prescribe, and many insurance plans have already tried to steer patients toward it through step therapy requirements.

2. Mometasone Furoate 0.1% (Cream or Ointment)

Potency: Mid-to-high potency (Group IV)
Available as: Cream, ointment, lotion, solution
Generic: Yes
Typical cost: $15-$40 for generic

Mometasone Furoate (brand name Elocon) is slightly more potent than Locoid. It's applied only once daily, which can be more convenient for patients who struggle with multiple daily applications. It's effective for eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis.

Because it's slightly stronger, it may not be the best choice for very sensitive skin areas or for long-term use. Your doctor will consider the location and severity of your condition when deciding if Mometasone is appropriate.

3. Desonide 0.05% (Cream, Ointment, or Lotion)

Potency: Low potency (Group VI)
Available as: Cream, ointment, lotion, foam
Generic: Yes
Typical cost: $15-$50 for generic

Desonide (brand name DesOwen) is a step down in potency from Locoid. It's a good alternative when the condition is mild or when treating sensitive areas like the face, neck, or skin folds. It's also commonly used in children because of its favorable safety profile.

If your eczema or dermatitis is relatively mild, Desonide may provide adequate relief with a lower risk of side effects like skin thinning.

4. Betamethasone Valerate 0.1% (Cream or Ointment)

Potency: Mid-to-high potency (Group III-V depending on vehicle)
Available as: Cream, ointment, lotion, foam
Generic: Yes
Typical cost: $10-$30 for generic

Betamethasone Valerate is another widely available mid-potency option. The cream formulation is Group V (similar to Locoid), while the ointment is more potent (Group III). It's effective for a broad range of inflammatory skin conditions and is very affordable in generic form.

Like Triamcinolone, Betamethasone Valerate generics are stocked at most pharmacies, making it a reliable alternative when Locoid isn't available.

How to Switch Safely

Switching topical corticosteroids isn't as simple as just picking the nearest option. Here's what to keep in mind:

• Don't switch without talking to your doctor. Potency differences matter — using a stronger steroid than needed can cause skin thinning, stretch marks, or other side effects.
• Consider the treatment area. Delicate areas like the face, eyelids, and groin require lower-potency steroids. Thicker skin areas like elbows and knees may need higher potency.
• Vehicle matters. Ointments are generally more potent than creams with the same active ingredient because they provide better occlusion. If you're switching from Locoid Lipocream, a standard cream may feel different on your skin.
• Watch for side effects. Any time you start a new topical steroid, monitor for increased irritation, burning, or signs of skin thinning. Report concerns to your doctor.

Final Thoughts

Not being able to find Locoid is frustrating, but you're far from out of options. Triamcinolone Acetonide, Mometasone Furoate, Desonide, and Betamethasone Valerate are all proven alternatives that your doctor can prescribe based on your specific needs.

Before switching, try using Medfinder to find Locoid in stock near you — you might be surprised to find it at a pharmacy you haven't tried yet. And if cost is a concern, check out our guide on saving money on Locoid.

For more detailed information about Locoid itself, read What Is Locoid? Uses, Dosage, and What You Need to Know.