urea + hydrocortisone

**Urea + hydrocortisone** is a topical combination drug consisting of urea, a keratolytic and skin moisturizer, and hydrocortisone, a low-potency corticosteroid. Hydrocortisone exerts anti-inflammatory, antipruritic, and vasoconstrictive effects through activation of glucocorticoid receptors, leading to decreased inflammation and immune cell infiltration in the skin. Urea promotes skin hydration by increasing water uptake and softening the stratum corneum, aiding in debridement of hyperkeratotic skin and enhancing steroid penetration. This combination is used for the symptomatic relief of inflammation, itching, redness, and scaling associated with corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses, including eczema and other inflammatory skin conditions[4][5][7][8][9]. Clinical studies have shown efficacy comparable to more potent corticosteroids with reduced risk of side effects when the combination is used[1].

Brand names

U-CortCarmol HCUremol HCTi-U-Lac HKeratol HC

Other names

hydrocortisone and ureaurea/hydrocortisone topical