Hydrocortisone is a member of the corticosteroid family of drugs that is used to treat temporary itching associated with minor skin irritations, inflammations, and rashes. These drugs are also used as part of the treatment for a wide spectrum of diseases ranging from skin problems to asthma and arthritis. The body naturally produces many cortisone-like hormones that are necessary to maintain good health. Corticosteroids are administered when the body is deficient in the amount of these hormones that it produces. Side effects include blurred vision, frequent urination, dehydration, blistering, burning, and itching.