Desoximetasone vs. Hydrocortisone for Eczema and Psoriasis: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

Desoximetasone

(Topicort)

topical hydrocortisone

Summary for Desoximetasone

Prescription only

Desoximetasone, also known by its brand name, Topicort, is a topical corticosteroid that's used to treat inflammatory skin conditions. It works by lowering certain chemicals in your body that cause inflammation. Desoximetasone (Topicort) comes as a brand-name and generic cream, ointment, gel, and spray. It's applied to the affected area(s) of the skin twice per day. Side effects aren't common but can include skin irritation and burning.

Indications for Desoximetasone

Inflammatory skin conditions
Plaque psoriasis in adults - desoximetasone spray (Topicort Spray) only

Pros and Cons for Desoximetasone

Pros

Available in different forms (cream, gel, ointment, spray)
Available as a lower-cost generic
Few side effects

Cons

Must apply to the affected area of skin twice per day
Not for long-term use because of a higher risk of side effects

Common Side Effects for Desoximetasone

Side effects aren't common. See Other Side Effects.

Warnings for Desoximetasone

Altered stress hormone levels
Cataracts and glaucoma
Flammable (topical spray only)

Summary for Hydrocortisone

Prescription or over-the-counter

Topical hydrocortisone is a steroid medication used to treat different skin conditions, such as eczema. It's available in many different formulations, including cream, ointment, lotion, and solution. Some strengths are found over the counter (e.g., hydrocortisone 1%), while you need a prescription for others (e.g., hydrocortisone 2.5%). In general, most people experience few to no side effects while using topical hydrocortisone as directed. Rarely, topical hydrocortisone might cause topical steroid withdrawal (TSW). Watch out for skin rashes and irritations that get worse after stopping this medication.

Indications for Hydrocortisone

Short-term relief of skin irritations (e.g., itching) due to:

Skin inflammation
Skin rashes
Eczema
Psoriasis
Insect bites
Poison ivy or oak
Skin allergies
Dry scalp
Genital or rectal irritation

Pros and Cons for Hydrocortisone

Pros

Available as a lower-cost, generic medication
Available over the counter
Many formulations to choose from, such as ointment, cream, and solution

Cons

Short-term use only, otherwise it might cause skin thinning and high blood sugar
Applied multiple times a day
Might affect your body's ability to fight off infections