Clobetasol is used to treat certain scalp and skin
conditions (such as psoriasis, dermatitis, rash). Clobetasol reduces the
swelling, itching and redness that can occur in these types of conditions.
This medication is a very strong (super-high-potency)
corticosteroid.
This section contains uses of this drug that are not
listed in the approved professional labeling for the drug but that may be
prescribed by your health care professional. Use this drug for a condition
that is listed in this section only if it has been so prescribed by your
health care professional.
This drug may also be used for certain skin conditions
(such as eczema, psoriasis) on other parts of the body.
Apply this medication to the affected area of the scalp
as directed by your doctor, usually twice daily (in the morning and
evening).
Use this medication only on the skin. However, do not
use it on the face, groin or underarms unless directed to do so by your
doctor.
Wash and dry your hands before applying. Apply the
prescribed amount of medication to the affected area and gently rub in. Do
not bandage, wrap or cover the area.
After applying the medication, wash your hands, unless
you are using this medication to treat the hands. If applying this
medication near the eyes, avoid getting it in the eyes because this may
worsen or cause glaucoma. Also, avoid getting the medication in your nose
or mouth. If you get the medication in your eyes, nose, or mouth, rinse
with plenty of water.
Use this medication exactly as prescribed. Do not
increase your dose, take it more often, or use it for longer than 2 weeks
in a row. Do not apply more than 50 milliliters of medication in a given
week unless directed by your doctor. Doing so could increase your risk of
side effects.
Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse
after 2 weeks.
Burning, stinging, itching, irritation, dryness, or
redness may occur when this medication is first applied to the scalp/skin.
This should disappear in a few days as your body adjusts to the medication.
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 (striae)
- skin thinning/discoloration
- excessive hair growth
- acne
- small red bumps on the skin (folliculitis)
Skin infections can become worse when using this
medication. Tell your doctor 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, tell your doctor or pharmacist
if you are allergic to it; or to any other steroids (such as
hydrocortisone, dexamethasone); 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:
- poor blood circulation
- diabetes
- other skin/scalp conditions (such as rosacea, perioral
dermatitis)
- immune system problems
Do not use if there is an infection or sore 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 scalp/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.
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. This medicine may be harmful if
swallowed.
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.
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.