Uses:
This medication is used to treat a variety of skin conditions (e.g. eczema psoriasis dermatitis allergies 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.
Side Effects:
Burning stinging itching dryness or redness at the application site may occur when first applied to the skin. This should disappear in a few days as your body adjusts to the medication. If any of these effects persist or worsen notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she 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 "hair bumps" (folliculitis).
Skin infections can become worse when this medication is used. Notify 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.
Pre-Cautions:
Before using clobetasol tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other corticosteroids (e.g. 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: poor blood circulation immune system problems 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. Therefore 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 slow down a childs growth if used for a long time. The effect on final adult height is unknown. See the doctor regularly so your childs 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 not known whether 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 breast-feeding.