stabilized , 17 - substituted hydrocortisone containing compositions and methods of manufacture are disclosed . isomerization of the hydrocortisone component of topical steroid compositions is markedly reduced by including an omega - 6 acid component in the form of a free acid or as a compound such as an ester . specifically disclosed are methods for preventing the isomerization of hydrocortisone 17 - butyrate into hydrocortisone 21 - butyrate through the use of safflower oil .