This medication is used to treat a variety of skin
conditions (such as psoriasis, eczema, dermatitis, allergies, rash).
Clobetasol reduces the swelling, itching, and redness that can occur in
these types of conditions. It also can heal the rough, scaly patches on the
skin seen with psoriasis. Clobetasol is a very strong (super-high-potency)
corticosteroid. This medication also contains emollients. Emollients soften
and moisturize the skin, leading to decreased itching and flaking.
Emollients also help to protect the skin against
irritation.
This medication is not recommended for use in children
younger than 12 years.
Use this medication on the skin only. Do not use it on
the face, groin, or underarms unless directed to do so by your
doctor.
Wash and dry your hands before using. Clean and dry the
affected area. Shake the can well before each use. Apply a small amount of
medication to the affected area and gently rub in as directed by your
doctor, usually 2 times daily. Do not bandage, cover, or wrap the area
unless directed to do so by your doctor.
After applying the medication, wash your hands unless
you are using this medication to treat the hands. When applying this
medication near the eyes, avoid getting it in the eyes because doing so may
worsen or cause glaucoma. Also, avoid getting this medication in the nose
or mouth. If you get the medication in these areas, rinse with plenty of
water. If irritation occurs, contact your doctor right
away.
Use this medication only for the condition prescribed.
Do not use it for longer than 2 weeks in a row or use more than 50 grams a
week unless directed to do so by your doctor.
This medication contains an ingredient that could easily
catch fire (flammable). After applying this medication, avoid smoking and
being near open flames until the foam has dried.
Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse
after 2 weeks.
Burning, itching, irritation, or dryness may occur when
this medication is first applied to the skin. Acne, unusual hair growth, or
small red bumps on the skin (folliculitis) may also occur. If any of these
effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist
promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed
because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the
risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious
side effects.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side
effects, including:
- stretch marks
- skin thinning/discoloration
Skin infections can become worse when this medication is
used. Tell your doctor promptly if redness, swelling, or irritation does
not improve.
Rarely, it is possible this medication will be absorbed
from the skin into the bloodstream. This can lead to side effects of too
much corticosteroid. These side effects are more likely in children, and in
people who use this medication for a long time or over large areas of the
skin. Tell your doctor right away if any of the following side effects
occur:
- unusual/extreme tiredness
- weight loss
- headache
- swelling ankles/feet
- increased thirst/urination
- vision problems
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare.
However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a
serious allergic reaction, including:
- rash
- itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
- severe dizziness
- trouble breathing
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If
you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or
pharmacist.
In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at
www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about
side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at
1-866-234-2345.
Before using clobetasol/emollients, tell your doctor or
pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other corticosteroids (such as
hydrocortisone, prednisone); or if you have any other allergies. This
product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic
reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more
details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or
pharmacist your medical history, especially of:
- certain skin conditions (rosacea, perioral dermatitis)
Do not use if there is an infection or sore present in
the area to be treated.
Rarely, using corticosteroid medications for a long time
or over large areas of skin can make it more difficult for your body to
respond to physical stress. Before having surgery or emergency treatment,
or if you get a serious illness/injury, tell your doctor or dentist that
you are using this medication or have used this medication within the past
few months.
Though it is unlikely, this medication may temporarily
slow down a child's growth if used for a long time. See the doctor
regularly so your child's height can be checked.
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only
when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your
doctor.
It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk when
applied to the skin. Similar medications pass into breast milk when taken
by mouth. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Drug interactions may change how your medications work
or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not
contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you
use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and
share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the
dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. If someone
has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble
breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US
residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call
1-844-764-7669.
Do not share this medication with others.
This medication has been prescribed for your current
condition only. Do not use it later for other skin problems unless told to
do so by your doctor. A different medication may be necessary in those
cases.
Lab and/or medical tests (such as adrenal gland
function) may be done while you are using this medication, especially if
you use this drug for an extended period of time or apply it over large
areas of the body. Keep all medical and lab appointments. Consult your
doctor for more details.
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If
it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next
dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch
up.
Store at room temperature away from heat and open flame.
Do not puncture the can. Keep all medications away from children and
pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them
into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when
it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste
disposal company.