Description
Clobetasol is a topical corticosteroid for the short term treatment only of more resistant dermatoses. These include the following: - Psoriasis (excluding widespread plaque psoriasis) - Recalcitrant dermatoses - Lichen planus - Discoid lupus erythematosus - Other skin conditions which do not respond satisfactorily to less potent steroids.
Topical corticosteroids act as anti-inflammatory agents via multiple mechanisms to inhibit late phase allergic reactions.
How to Use
Apply thinly and gently rub in using only enough to cover the entire affected area once or twice a day until improvement occurs (in the more responsive conditions this may be within a few days), then reduce the frequency of application or change the treatment to a less potent preparation.
Allow adequate time for absorption after each application before applying an emollient. If the condition worsens or does not improve within 2-4 weeks, treatment and diagnosis should be re-evaluated. Treatment should not be continued for more than 4 weeks. If continuous treatment is necessary, a less potent preparation should be used.
The maximum weekly dose should not exceed 50 gms/week.
Warnings
Clobetasol propionate belongs to the most potent class of topical corticosteroids and prolonged use may result in serious undesirable effects. If treatment with a local corticosteroid is clinically justified beyond 4 weeks, a less potent corticosteroid preparation should be considered. Repeated but short courses of clobetasol propionate may be used to control exacerbations. Application to the face is undesirable as this area is more susceptible to atrophic changes. If used on the face, treatment should be limited to 5 days.
Further information can be found here.
