clobetasol
Clobetasol is a super potent (very strong) steroid medication that's applied to the skin. It's used to relieve skin inflammation and irritation caused by moderate to severe skin problems, such as psoriasis. Clobetasol is available in many different formulations, including cream, shampoo, lotion, and spray. Most formulations of clobetasol aren't recommended to be used for more than 2 weeks at a time since it can cause serious side effects. In general, clobetasol is for adults only, but some formulations (e.g., solution and foam) can be used by children as young as 12 years old.
What is Clobetasol?
What is Clobetasol used for?
Treatment of skin rashes and itchy skin - all topical forms except shampoo
Treatment of moderate to severe scalp psoriasis - foam and shampoo only
Treatment of plaque psoriasis not on the scalp - all topical forms except shampoo
How Clobetasol works
Clobetasol is a topical corticosteroid. When it’s used on the skin, it has three actions:
It lowers the amount of inflammatory chemicals that cause redness, itching, and swelling. This helps to lower skin inflammation.
It can also slow down new skin cells from being made, which can help lower the amount of patches or scales in some skin problems (e.g., psoriasis).
Finally, it lessens the immune response of your body, which can help with certain skin problems that are caused by a sensitive immune system (e.g., eczema).
Drug Facts
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What are the side effects of Clobetasol?
Common Side Effects
- Burning
- Stinging
- Skin irritation
- Itching
Other Side Effects
- Dry skin
- Rash
- Thinning skin
- Acne-like bumps
- Changes in skin color
- Skin irritation
- Stretch marks
- Heat rash
- Hair loss (when used on the scalp)
Source:Â DailyMed
The following side effects have also been reported
Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.
Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:
More common
Burning or stinging at the application site
Less common
Burning sensation of the skin
flushing or redness of the skin
itching, scaling, severe redness, soreness, or swelling of the skin
skin irritation
skin rash, encrusted, scaly and oozing
thinning of the skin with easy bruising, especially when used on the face or where the skin folds together (eg, between the fingers)
Rare
Thinning, weakness, or wasting away of the skin
Incidence not known
Backache
blindness
blurred vision
burning, itching, and pain in hairy areas, or pus at the root of the hair
change in vision
facial hair growth in females
fractures
fruit-like breath odor
full or round face, neck, or trunk
headache
increased hunger
increased thirst
increased urination
irritability
loss of sexual desire or ability
menstrual irregularities
muscle wasting
redness and scaling around the mouth
stomach pain
sugar in the urine
sweating
tearing
thinning of the hair
troubled breathing
unexplained weight loss
unusual tiredness or weakness
vomiting
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:
Less common
Body aches or pain
changes in skin coloring
congestion
dryness of the throat
raised, dark red, wart-like spots on the skin, especially when used on the face
skin discomfort
stuffy or runny nose
tender, swollen glands in the neck
trouble swallowing
voice changes
Incidence not known
burning and itching of the skin with pinhead-sized red blisters
increased hair growth on the forehead, back, arms, and legs
lightening of normal skin color
lightening of treated areas of dark skin
reddish purple lines on the arms, face, legs, trunk, or groin
softening of the skin
Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Pros and cons of Clobetasol
Pros
Available as a lower-cost, generic medication
One of the most potent (high strength) topical steroids
Many formulations to choose from, such as ointment, cream, and spray
Works well to manage psoriasis symptoms
Cons
For short-term use only, otherwise it might cause skin thinning and high blood sugar
Not safe to use on the face, armpits, or groin
Certain products aren't safe for children under 12 years old (shampoo, lotion, and spray can only be used by adults)
Unknown if safe in pregnant or breastfeeding females
Pharmacist tips for Clobetasol
Clobetasol skin products should only be used on the outside of your body on skin that's not broken. You shouldn’t use it on wounds or on damaged skin because this could cause you to absorb more medication. Don't take this medication by mouth, and never use it in your eyes, nose, or ears.
Wash your hands before and after using clobetasol to help prevent getting the medication in your eyes. This is because clobetasol has been shown to raise the risk of certain eye problems, such as glaucoma or cataracts. If it does get into your eyes, wash your eyes with cold water and contact your provider if irritation doesn't go away.
Don't cover the treated area with a bandage after applying clobetasol unless directed by your provider. This can change how the medication gets absorbed and cause more side effects.
Clobetasol isn't meant to be used long-term, so ask your provider how long your treatment should last. Typically, you shouldn't use clobetasol skin products for more than 2 weeks (4 weeks for shampoo), unless directed by your provider, since doing so can cause serious side effects. Let your provider know if you haven't had any improvement in your skin condition after this time.
Clobetasol isn't safe to use on the face, armpits, or groin. If you have symptoms in those areas, contact your provider to discuss alternatives.
Some stinging or burning after using clobetasol is possible. But if they're bothersome or if you notice a rash appear, please contact your healthcare provider because you might need more medical attention.
Make sure you don't inhale (breathe in) the medication while using clobetasol spray.
If you're using clobetasol foam or spray, don't apply it near an open flame or while smoking. This product can catch on fire very easily. Avoid storing the bottle near heat.
How to use clobetasol foam: Hold the bottle upside down and press down on the dispenser. The foam will melt right away when in contact with skin, so make sure to apply the medication directly to the affected area. You can rinse your hands with cold water and dry them before using to help.
How to use clobetasol shampoo: Don't wet your hair before using this medication. Apply a small amount of shampoo directly onto the affected area on the scalp by squeezing the bottle. Massage the shampoo gently into the scalp and leave it on for 15 minutes. Lather and rinse thoroughly afterward. Avoid using a shower cap or towel during application. Although it's not needed, you can wash your hair with a non-medicated shampoo afterwards if you want to.
Frequently asked questions about Clobetasol
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What are the risks and warnings for Clobetasol?
Clobetasol can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.
Changes in hormone levels
Risk factors: Using high potency topical steroids | Applying clobetasol for a long period of time | Applying too much clobetasol on your skin (2 grams or more daily) | Covering applied area with a bandage | Younger age
If you absorb too much topical steroid through the skin, it can interrupt your body's ability to make stress hormones and affect many bodily functions. For example, it can raise your blood sugar levels or cause your skin to bruise more easily. Your risk is higher if you apply clobetasol for a long time or apply it over larger areas of skin. To prevent changes in hormone levels, your provider will prescribe the lowest possible dose of clobetasol that works well for you for the shortest amount of time. If you need to use clobetasol for a longer period of time or over a larger skin area, your provider might ask you to do some lab work to test whether or not your body is still able to produce the proper amount of stress hormones. Don't use clobetasol for more than 2 weeks at a time (4 weeks for the shampoo) unless directed by your provider.
In addition, if you suddenly stop using clobetasol after having done so for a long time and over a large skin area, you might experience topical steroid withdrawal (TSW). Some symptoms of TSW include itchy, burning, or flakey skin. If you think you might be experiencing TSW, talk with your provider and they can suggest possible treatment options for you. Don't suddenly stop using clobetasol without talking to your provider first.
Risk of high blood sugar
Risk factors: Using clobetasol for a long period of time | Using excessive amounts of clobetasol on your skin
Using topical clobetasol for a long period of time or over large areas of the body can sometimes raise your blood sugar levels. If blood sugar isn't controlled, this can lead to diabetes. If you have diabetes, your provider might ask you to check your blood sugar regularly to make sure this medication is safe for you.
New or worsened skin infection
Risk factor: Using a topical steroid
Clobetasol can lower your body's ability to fight infections, including infections on your skin. It is especially important to treat skin infections with an appropriate antifungal or antibacterial if you are using clobetasol. The longer you are using this medication, the higher your risk of this problem is. If you notice redness, pain, swelling, or pus where you are applying clobetasol, stop using it and talk to your healthcare provider right away.
Skin problems
Risk factors: Using a higher dose of clobetasol over a longer period of time | Covering applied area with a bandage
Using clobetasol longer than directed by your provider can raise your risk of different skin reactions, including skin thinning, stretch marks, spider veins, burning, itching, irritation, dry skin, inflamed hair follicles, changes in skin color, or rash. Some changes can be permanent. To prevent severe skin reactions from happening, your provider will prescribe the lowest possible dose of clobetasol to treat your symptoms for the shortest amount of time. Let your provider know right away if you notice any new or worsening skin problems.
Clobetasol dosage forms
Typical dosing for Clobetasol
Clobetasol topical cream, gel, ointment, foam
Adults and children (age 12 years or older): Apply a small amount to the affected area(s) 2 times daily for up to 2 weeks. Don't use more than 50 grams per week.
Clobetasol topical solution
Adults and children (age 12 years or older): Apply a small amount to the affected area(s) on the scalp 2 times daily (morning and night) for up to 2 weeks. Don't use more than 50 mL per week.
Clobetasol topical lotion, spray
Adults: Apply or spray a small amount to the affected area(s) 2 times daily for up to 2 weeks. Your provider might continue your treatment for an additional 2 weeks if needed, but only as spot-treatment to smaller areas of skin. If you're using the spray, don't apply more than 26 sprays for each application or 52 sprays daily. Don't use more than 50 grams per week.
Clobetasol topical shampoo
Adults: Apply a small amount to the affected areas of dry scalp once daily for up to 4 weeks. Leave the shampoo on for 15 minutes before lathering and rinsing. Don't use more than 50 grams per week.
Clobetasol Reviews
GoodRx has partnered with PatientsLikeMe to provide reviews on the different aspects of Clobetasol.
Effectiveness
Learn more about the effectiveness of Clobetasol based on real life experiences.
Overall Rating
Based on 112 people taking this medication
3.3
Effectiveness by condition:
psoriasis69 reviews
3.2
eczema17 reviews
3.5
lichen sclerosus13 reviews
3.8
dermatomyositis8 reviews
4.5
alopecia areata5 reviews
1.8
Severity of side effects
Based on 140 people taking this medication
0%
50%
100%
Top side effects
Skin thinning
10%
Dry skin
3%
Burning sensation in skin
3%
Burning sensation
2%
Stinging pain
2%
Reasons people stopped taking Clobetasol
Based on 140 people who have taken this medication
Did not seem to work
36%
Course of treatment ended
16%
Other
15%
Doctor's advice
13%
Side effects too severe
10%
Expense
8%
Change in health plan coverage
3%
Personal research
3%
How long people take Clobetasol
Based on 189 people taking this medication
0%
50%
100%
Interactions between Clobetasol and other drugs
Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with this medication or change some of the other medicines you take.
Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.
- Bemiparin
- Lutetium Lu 177 Dotatate
- Macimorelin
- Nadroparin
- Sargramostim
Using this medicine with any of the following medicines may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.
- Auranofin
How much does Clobetasol cost?
What are alternatives to Clobetasol?
Treatment of skin rashes and itchy skin - all topical forms except shampoo
Treatment of moderate to severe scalp psoriasis - foam and shampoo only
Treatment of plaque psoriasis not on the scalp - all topical forms except shampoo
Inflammatory skin conditions - cream and ointment only
Plaque psoriasis - lotion and foam only
Inflammation and itchy skin conditions
Mild-to-moderate plaque psoriasis in people 18 years or older - Sernivo brand only
What is the latest news about Clobetasol?
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References
Best studies we foundActavis Pharma, Inc. (2022). CLOBETASOL PROPIONATE- clobetasol propionate spray [package insert]. DailyMed.
Akorn. (2022). CLOBETASOL PROPIONATE- clobetasol propionate gel [package insert]. DailyMed.
Akorn. (2022). CLOBETASOL PROPIONATE- clobetasol propionate lotion [package insert]. DailyMed.
Akorn. (2022). CLOBETASOL PROPIONATE- clobetasol propionate shampoo [package insert]. DailyMed.
Akorn. (2022). CLOBETASOL PROPIONATE- clobetasol propionate solution [package insert]. DailyMed.
Alembic Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (2022). CLOBETASOL PROPIONATE - clobetasol propionate ointment [package insert]. DailyMed.
Alembic Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (2022). CLOBETASOL PROPIONATE cream [package insert]. DailyMed.
American Academy of Dermatology Association. (n.d.). Scalp psoriasis: Symptoms.
Arthritis Foundation. (n.d.). How safe are steroid creams?
Badri, T., et al. (2022). Plaque psoriasis. StatPearls.
Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed). (2021). Clobetasol. National Institute of Child Health and Human Development.
Elmets, C. A., et al. (2021). Joint AAD–NPF guidelines of care for the management and treatment of psoriasis with topical therapy and alternative medicine modalities for psoriasis severity measures. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology.
Ference, J. D., et al. (2009). Choosing topical corticosteroids. American Family Physician.
Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Inc., USA. (2022). CLOBETASOL PROPIONATE- clobetasol propionate aerosol, foam [package insert]. DailyMed.
National Eye Institute. (2022). Glaucoma.
Pels, R., et al. (2008). Clobetasol propionate--where, when, why? Drugs of Today.
Phan, K., et al. (2021). Topical corticosteroids and risk of diabetes mellitus: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Dermatological Treatment.
Uva, L., et al. (2012). Mechanisms of action of topical corticosteroids in psoriasis. International Journal of Endocrinology.
Zampetti, A., et al. (2010). Pharmacotherapy of inflammatory and pruritic manifestations of corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses focus on clobetasol propionate. Clinical Medicine Insights: Therapeutics.
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