Hydrocortisone is the name for the hormone cortisol when supplied as a medication. Hydrocortisone is used in the treatment of severe allergic reactions, allergic conditions, cancer, skin disorders and eye disorders. Hydrocortisone is a steroid which works by blocking the production of certain chemical messengers in the body that cause inflammation (redness and swelling) and allergies.Uses include conditions such as adrenocortical insufficiency, adrenogenital syndrome, high blood calcium, thyroiditis, rheumatoid arthritis, dermatitis, asthma, and COPD. It is the treatment of choice for adrenocortical insufficiency.