Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Hydrocortisone Cream Rx Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Hydrocortisone 2.5% Cream (Rx) | $4 – $12 | $0 – $5 |
| Hydrocortisone 2.5% Ointment (Rx) | $4 – $12 | $0 – $5 |
| Hydrocortisone Butyrate 0.1% (Locoid) | $20 – $60 | $8 – $20 |
What Affects the Cost
- Brand-name vs. generic availability
- Insurance formulary tier placement
- Pharmacy choice (retail vs. mail-order vs. Costco)
- Manufacturer savings cards and coupons
- Dosage and quantity prescribed
- Geographic location
Insurance Coverage
Typical coverage: Tier 1 generic — widely covered; lower strengths available OTC
Most insurance plans use a tiered formulary: Tier 1 (generic) $0-$15 copay, Tier 2 (preferred brand) $25-$75, Tier 3 (non-preferred brand) $50-$150, Tier 4 (specialty) $100-$500+. Prior authorization may be required for certain medications. Step therapy may require trying cheaper alternatives first.
How to Save Money
- Always ask for generic when available — saves 50-90%
- Use GoodRx, RxSaver, or similar discount cards
- Costco pharmacy is open to non-members and often has lowest prices
- Mark Cuban's Cost Plus Drugs offers transparent low pricing
- Manufacturer patient assistance programs provide free medication to qualifying patients
- HSA/FSA funds can cover medication costs tax-free
Related Procedures & Costs
Frequently Asked Questions
Prescription hydrocortisone 2.5% cream costs $4 to $15 without insurance. The stronger butyrate form costs $20 to $60.
OTC hydrocortisone is available in 0.5% and 1% strengths. Prescription strength is 2.5% and is more effective for moderate inflammatory skin conditions.
Low-strength hydrocortisone can be used briefly on babies under medical supervision. It should not be used on the diaper area for extended periods without a doctor's recommendation.