Clobetasol - topical


Patient Medicine Information
Why do I need this medicine?
Clobetasol helps relieve swelling, redness, itchiness and irritation of certain skin problems that have not responded to milder anti-inflammatory (steroid) medicines such as psoriasis (a type of skin disease that allows the skin cells to rapidly build up causing itchy patches of thick, red skin and silvery scales) of the skin or scalp.
How do I use this medicine?
Apply Clobetasol exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not use more often or over a larger area than instructed by your doctor.

This medicine is available as a cream, ointment, gel, lotion, foam, scalp solution, or shampoo.

If you are using the cream, ointment, gel, or lotion, follow these steps:
  1. Wash your hands.
  2. Clean and dry the affected area before application.
  3. Apply a thin layer of Clobetasol to the affected area(s) and rub gently on the skin until it disappears. Do not cover, wrap or bandage the area unless instructed by the doctor.
  4. Wash your hands after using.
  5. Replace the cap of the tube or bottle.
If you are using the foam, follow these steps:
  1. Wash your hands.
  2. Turn the container upside-down and put a small amount of the preparation onto a saucer or other cool surface then onto the affected area. Do not place the foam directly onto your hands as it will melt immediately upon contact with warm skin.
  3. Rub Clobetasol gently on the skin or scalp until it disappears. Do not cover, wrap or bandage the area unless instructed by the doctor.
  4. Wash your hands after using.
If you are using the scalp solution, follow these steps:
  1. Wash your hands.
  2. Your hair must be dry before using the scalp solution.
  3. Unscrew the bottle cap then direct the nozzle to the affected area(s) of the scalp.
  4. Slowly squeeze the bottle to cover the area with a thin solution then gently massage. Do not cover, wrap or bandage the area unless instructed by the doctor.
  5. Wash your hands after using.
If you are using the shampoo, follow these steps:
  1. Do not wet your hair before using the shampoo.
  2. Apply a small amount directly onto the dry scalp then gently massage. Leave the shampoo on your scalp for 15 minutes. Do not cover, wrap or bandage the area unless instructed by the doctor.
  3. Rinse your hair and scalp. Wash it thoroughly and let your hair dry.
  4. Wash your hands after using.
Avoid contact with your eyes or mouth. Rinse immediately with water if this medicine gets into your eyes or mouth. Alert your doctor if you start to have any problems with your eyes.

Do not use with occlusive dressing unless instructed by the doctor.

The dose of this medicine will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the course of your treatment depending on the type of skin condition that you are being treated.

Clobetasol must be used regularly for it to be effective. Continue using this medicine even when you feel better. Do not stop using it unless instructed by the doctor.
What should I do if I have forgotten to use this medicine?
Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.

Do not apply more than what is instructed by the doctor to make up for the missed dose.
When should I not use this medicine?
Alert your doctor if you have the following conditions:
  • bacterial, viral, fungal or parasitic skin or scalp infections
  • acne (also known as pimples)
  • rosacea (severe skin flushing usually around your nose and cheeks)
  • perioral dermatitis (spotty red rash of the skin around the mouth)
  • itching of the skin around your anus or genitals
  • burns, ulcerous wounds or lesions
  • thinning of the affected skin
as Clobetasol may not be suitable for you.

Do not give this medicine to children below 1 year old unless instructed to do so by the doctor.
What should I take note of while using this medicine?
Inform your doctor if you have a history of local allergic reactions to a similar type of medicine.

Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before applying Clobetasol to a child or an adolescent. Children and adolescents may be more sensitive to the side effects.

Do not apply on skin that is broken, damaged, thinning or discharging with fluid or pus.

Do not apply this medicine on your face, groin, armpits, skin folds, or nappy area unless instructed by your doctor.

Do not apply Clobetasol to large areas of your skin.

Inform your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens.
What side effects could I experience?
Clobetasol may cause any of the following side effects: burning sensation, pain, itching, or irritation of the skin, changes in skin tone, and dryness or thinning of the skin.

Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:
  • rashes, breathlessness, swelling of the face, eyes or mouth
  • rounding of the face, unusual weight gain in the upper back, slow healing
  • visual disturbances such as blurred vision
  • fruity-smelling breath, increased thirst and hunger, frequent urination
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Can I use this with other medicines?
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking or using any of these medicines:
  • medicines to treat fungal infections e.g. itraconazole, ketoconazole
  • medicines for HIV infection e.g. ritonavir
  • aldesleukin (medicine to treat cancer)
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Clobetasol.

Let your doctor know if you are using any other creams, ointments or other medicines on the affected area.

Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements, and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
How should I store this medicine?
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.

Store the topical foam and scalp solution at a temperature between 20°C to 25°C. Do not allow to freeze or refrigerate. Keep away from heat, open flame, or direct sunlight. Do not puncture or burn the foam container.

Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
This information is independently developed by MIMS based on clobetasol - topical and is provided for your reference only. It is not a replacement for and should only be used in conjunction with full consultation with a licensed healthcare professional, the information provided by your pharmacist and/or the manufacturer of the medication. It may not contain all the available information you require and cannot substitute professional medical care, nor does it take into account all individual circumstances. Although great effort has been made to ensure content accuracy, we shall not be held responsible or liable for any claims or damages arising from the use or misuse of the information contained herein, its contents or omissions, or otherwise. Copyright © 2024 MIMS. All rights reserved. Powered by MIMS.com
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