Clobetasol
Description
Clobetasol is a steroid. It is used as a local application for the treatment of
itching in conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and allergies. It belongs to a class of medicines known as corticosteroids, often referred to as "steroids." When your skin reacts to triggers, it releases natural chemicals that cause the familiar symptoms of inflammation: redness, swelling, and intense itching. Clobetasol works by mimicking the anti-inflammatory action of naturally occurring substances in your body. When applied topically (as a cream, ointment, foam, or shampoo), this molecule penetrates the skin's surface and interacts with specific receptors inside skin cells. This action shuts down the inflammatory process at its source. It reduces the production of the chemicals that cause swelling, constricts the tiny blood vessels to lessen redness, and relieves the discomfort of itching. It is typically prescribed for only short periods to control severe flare-ups, providing relief to irritated skin.
Uses
- Skin conditions (such as eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis, itching)
- Skin complaints, like redness, swelling, burning sensation and pain
Contraindications
When should one not use Clobetasol
- Allergic (hypersensitive) to Clobetasol Propionate or any other ingredients of this medicine
- If a child is under one year of age
- Acne
- Severe skin flushing on and around your nose (rosacea)
- Spotty red rash around your mouth (perioral dermatitis)
- Itching around your genitals (penis or vagina) or anus
- Infected skin
Side effects
Common side effects of this drug are:
- Thinning of skin – stretch marks
- Dry skin
- Acne
- Hair loss
- Burning, itching, skin irritation at the site of application
- If used for too long you may experience weight gain, swelling of face, lips, eyelids
- Sleep disturbances and mood changes
- Severe skin irritation
- In children - slow growth
Precautions and Warnings
Pregnancy
Breast Feeding
Driving
Alcohol
Other General Warnings
- You develop an infection while using this medicine
- Make sure to clean the skin before applying medicine
- Be cautious not to apply near eye or eyelids
- Don't use in children for more than five days
- Don't take this medicine for more than four weeks
Mode of Action
How Does It Work?
Interactions
Interactions with other medicines
Interactions with food items
Dietary Restrictions
Dosage
Overdose
Missed a Dose
Content Details
Ravindra Ghongade
B. Pharm
Dr. Ritu Budania
MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What should I discuss with my healthcare expert before taking Clobetasol?
Q: Is Clobetasol an antibiotic?
- No. Clobetasol is a corticosteroid (steroid), not an antibiotic. It treats inflammation and suppresses the immune response in the skin. If your condition is also infected, your doctor may prescribe a Clobetasol combination that includes an antibiotic or antifungal....
Q: What are the common side effects of Clobetasol?
- Side effects are generally localized to the application site and can include:
- Burning, stinging, or itching at the application site.
- Skin dryness or cracking.
- Folliculitis (inflamed hair follicles).
- Changes in skin color.
Q: What should I do if my condition clears up quickly?
- If your symptoms improve dramatically before the end of the prescribed treatment course, you should contact your doctor. They may instruct you to stop using the medication or to use it less often to prevent side effects and corticosteroid withdrawal....









