What Is Hydrocortisone/Iodoquinol? Uses, Dosage, and What You Need to Know in 2026

Hydrocortisone/Iodoquinol is a topical prescription combination medication used to treat skin conditions that involve both inflammation and infection. It's available as a cream or gel and is applied directly to the skin. Brand names include Alcortin, Alcortin A, Vytone, Dermazene, Corti-Sav, and Iodoquimez.

What Is Hydrocortisone/Iodoquinol?

Hydrocortisone/Iodoquinol contains two active ingredients that work together:

Hydrocortisone: A mild corticosteroid that reduces redness, swelling, and itching by calming the skin's inflammatory response

Iodoquinol: A halogenated hydroxyquinoline with broad-spectrum antifungal and antibacterial properties that helps treat the infection component

Together, they address the dual nature of many skin conditions: the immune system overreaction (handled by hydrocortisone) and the underlying infection that drives or complicates the rash (handled by iodoquinol).

Important note: The FDA has not formally found Hydrocortisone/Iodoquinol to be safe and effective, and the drug labeling is not FDA-approved. The FDA and National Research Council classify it as only "possibly" effective for its listed uses. It is marketed under FDA enforcement discretion.

What Conditions Does It Treat?

Hydrocortisone/Iodoquinol is used for a variety of inflammatory and infectious skin conditions, including:

Intertrigo — rash in skin folds (under breasts, groin, underarms, belly folds)

Atopic and contact dermatitis (eczema) — especially when complicated by secondary infection

Tinea pedis (athlete's foot) — fungal infection of the feet

Tinea cruris (jock itch) — fungal infection of the groin

Tinea corporis (ringworm) — fungal infection of the body

Folliculitis — inflamed hair follicles with bacterial or fungal component

Anogenital pruritus — itching around the anus or genitalia

Lichen simplex chronicus — chronic itchy skin thickening from repeated scratching

Chronic eczematoid otitis externa — inflamed outer ear canal

Available Dosage Forms and Strengths

Cream 1%/1% (hydrocortisone/iodoquinol): Generic version; most widely available; typically in ~28g tubes

Cream 1.9%/1% (Vytone): Higher hydrocortisone concentration using acetate form; sold in individual packets

Gel 2%/1% with aloe (Alcortin A): Highest hydrocortisone concentration; gel vehicle; includes aloe vera; most expensive

How to Use Hydrocortisone/Iodoquinol Correctly

Follow your prescriber's instructions exactly. General guidance:

Apply a thin layer to the affected area 3–4 times daily, or as directed

Wash and dry the area gently before applying

Wash hands before and after applying (unless treating your hands)

Do not cover with bandages or tight clothing unless directed (increases absorption and risk)

Keep away from eyes, nose, mouth, and vaginal area

Do not use for longer than prescribed — prolonged use increases risk of skin thinning and secondary infections

Who Should NOT Use This Medication

People with iodine allergy or allergy to halogenated hydroxyquinolines

Children under 12 years old (safety not established)

Patients with allergy to any ingredient in the formulation

Want to understand how this medication actually works? See: How Does Hydrocortisone/Iodoquinol Work? Mechanism of Action Explained in Plain English.

Having trouble filling your prescription? Use medfinder to find a pharmacy near you with it in stock.