Other Brands/Names

Ikaderm, Kloderma, Lotasbat, Cloflam, Clonaderm, Dermovate, Forderm, Bersol, Clofalam, Clonate, Elopro, Psoriderm, Tempovate.

How it Works

Clobetasol is a corticosteroid medication with a very strong effect. It is intended for use on the skin and works by slowing down the production, release, and activity of substances in the body that trigger inflammation, such as histamine, kinins, and prostaglandins.

Indications

Clobetasol is prescribed to treat skin problems that involve inflammation, such as redness or swelling. It also helps reduce itching. Doctors usually recommend clobetasol for several skin conditions, including:

• Dermatitis or skin inflammation that does not improve with lower-strength corticosteroid treatments

• Allergic skin reactions

• Psoriasis on the skin and scalp, which causes thick scaly patches

• Lichen planus, an immune-related condition that leads to swollen skin

• Discoid lupus erythematosus, a type of lupus affecting the skin

• Chronic lichen simplex, a chronic skin inflammation disorder marked by thick, itchy patches on the skin

Contraindications

Clobetasol should not be used in the following situations:

• Children younger than 1 year old

• Pregnancy or when planning to become pregnant

• Allergy to clobetasol

• Acne vulgaris

• Skin infections caused by viruses, bacteria, fungi, or parasites

• Burn injuries

• Itching around the anal or genital region

• Skin reactions that appear after vaccination

Side Effects

Mild side effects that can appear shortly after application include:

• Itching

• Dryness of the skin

• Burning or stinging sensation

• Headache

However, clobetasol may also cause more serious side effects, such as:

• Allergic contact dermatitis

• Worsening of skin infections

• Eye problems like glaucoma or cataracts

• Hormonal imbalances in children when used in high doses or for extended periods

• Cushing’s syndrome, a condition where the body produces too much cortisol

• Higher blood sugar levels

Types

Clobetasol is available in several forms, including:

• Ointment

• Cream

• Lotion

• Gel

• Shampoo

Dosage

Adults

• Ointment or cream (0.05%): Apply a thin layer on affected skin twice daily. The maximum dose is 50 grams per week. Treatment should not exceed 4 weeks.

• Lotion or gel (0.05%): Apply twice daily, with a maximum dose of 50 grams per week. Treatment should not exceed 2 weeks.

• Shampoo (0.05%): Used once daily to wash the hair. Maximum treatment duration is 2 weeks.

Children

• For children 1 year and older: 0.05% cream or ointment can be used with the same dosage as adults.

• For children under 12 years old: the 0.05% gel is not recommended.

• For children under 2 years old: the 0.05% shampoo should not be used.

Safety

According to the FDA, clobetasol belongs to pregnancy category C. Studies in animals have shown harmful effects on the fetus, but research in humans is still lacking. Therefore, this medication should be avoided during pregnancy.

Its safety for breastfeeding mothers has not yet been established. Always consult a doctor before using clobetasol while breastfeeding.

Drug Interactions

When clobetasol is used together with antiviral drugs such as ritonavir or antifungal medications like itraconazole, the level of clobetasol in the body may rise, increasing the risk of side effects.

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