Clobetasol
Overview
Clobetasol
Ointment, 0.5 mg/g
COMPOSITION
One gram of ointment contains the active substance clobetasol propionate 0.5 mg.
Excipient with known effect: propylene glycol. Other excipient: sorbitan sesquioleate.
WHAT IT IS USED FOR
A very potent topical corticosteroid for the short-term treatment of inflammatory signs and itching in resistant dermatoses that do not respond to weaker corticosteroids. It is used in adults, the elderly and children over 1 year — for example in psoriasis (except widespread plaque forms), lichen planus, discoid lupus erythematosus and other resistant skin conditions. The ointment form is particularly suitable for dry, thickened or lichenified skin.
HOW IT WORKS
Clobetasol is a strong corticosteroid that reduces inflammation, redness and itching of the skin by acting on the local inflammatory and allergic reaction.
HOW TO USE
Apply a thin layer to the affected area of skin once or twice a day until improvement. Allow the ointment to absorb before applying an emollient.
Treatment should not exceed 4 weeks, and no more than 50 g should be used per week. On the face, treatment is limited to 5 days. In children, use the minimum amount needed, usually no more than 5 days, without occlusive dressings. If the condition does not improve within 2–4 weeks, consult your doctor. Do not stop treatment abruptly – it is reduced gradually as directed by your doctor.
WHEN IT SHOULD NOT BE USED
hypersensitivity to clobetasol propionate or to any of the excipients;
untreated skin infections;
acne vulgaris or rosacea;
itching without inflammation; perianal or genital itching;
perioral dermatitis;
children under 1 year of age (including dermatitis and nappy rash).
Important to know
As a very potent corticosteroid, clobetasol is used only for short periods and on limited areas. Applying it to large areas, under an occlusive dressing, on thin (face) or damaged skin, or in children increases absorption into the body and the risk of systemic effects (for example Cushing's syndrome, slowing of growth in children). On the eyelids, avoid contact with the eyes (risk of cataract and glaucoma); if vision disturbances occur, consult a doctor.
Tell your doctor if you take medicines that can increase the corticosteroid's effect (for example ritonavir, itraconazole). The medicine contains propylene glycol, which may cause skin irritation. During pregnancy and breast-feeding, use only as directed by your doctor, in the smallest amount; while breast-feeding, do not apply to the breasts. Wash your hands after applying (unless the hands are being treated). Read the package leaflet carefully before use.
Possible side effects
Common: itching, burning or pain at the application site.
Uncommon: thinning of the skin, stretch marks, dilated small blood vessels (telangiectasia).
Very rare: dryness or wrinkling of the skin, pigmentation changes, excess hair, worsening of the original symptoms, contact dermatitis, acne, hypersensitivity reactions, systemic corticosteroid effects, cataract, glaucoma; frequency not known: blurred vision.
If side effects occur, stop using the product and consult a doctor or pharmacist.
STORAGE
Store below 25 °C. Keep out of the reach of children. Shelf life: 24 months.
QUESTIONS AND CONTACTS
For questions about the medicine, please consult your doctor or pharmacist. Manufacturer: FARMAPRIM SRL, 5 Crinilor str., Porumbeni village, Criuleni district, Republic of Moldova, MD-4829. Pharmacovigilance: safety@farmaprim.md.
Brief information prepared on the basis of the approved Summary of Product Characteristics. It does not replace consultation with a doctor or pharmacist and does not contain all information about the medicine. Always read the package leaflet.