This medication is used to treat a variety of skin
conditions (such as eczema, seborrheic dermatitis). Clobetasone helps
reduce swelling, itching, and redness. It is a medium-strength medication
in the class of drugs known as anti-inflammatory
corticosteroids.
This medication is for use on the skin only. Do not use
it on the face, groin, or underarms unless directed to do so by your
doctor.
Wash your hands before using. Clean and dry the affected
area as directed. Then apply a small amount of medication in a thin layer
on the skin and rub in gently as directed by your doctor, usually 2 to 3
times daily. Wash your hands after use, unless you are using this product
to treat the hands.
Do not bandage, cover, or wrap the treated area unless
you are instructed to do so by your doctor.
Do not use large amounts of this medication or apply
this more often or for a longer period than directed. Doing so may increase
the absorption of this medication into your blood, an effect that may
increase your risk of side effects. Ask your doctor about ways to reduce
this risk if you have large areas of the body to be treated. Adults should
not use more than 100 grams of this medication in a week unless directed by
the doctor.
Avoid getting this medication in your eyes, nose, or
mouth. If this occurs, wipe off the medication and rinse thoroughly with
water. Caution is advised if you are using this medication near the eyes
because doing so may worsen or cause increased pressure in the eyes
(glaucoma). Ask your doctor for more information.
Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better
after 1 week.
Burning, redness, irritation, or dryness of the skin may
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
- acne
- extreme/unwanted hair growth
- small red bumps on the skin (folliculitis)
Rarely, use of this medication for prolonged or repeated
periods may result in skin infections (such as those caused by fungi,
bacteria). Contact your doctor if you notice any unusual skin symptoms or
if your condition does not improve. If you develop an infection, you will
need another medication to treat it.
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 clobetasone, 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:
- skin infection (such as herpes simplex, chickenpox)
- poor blood circulation
- a weakened immune system
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.
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 another skin problem unless told to
do so by your doctor. A different medication may be necessary in that
case.
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. 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.