Clobetasol (patient information)
Why this medication is prescribed
Clobetasol is used to treat the itching, redness, dryness, crusting, scaling, inflammation, and discomfort of various skin and scalp conditions.
This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
How this medication should be used
Clobetasol comes in cream and ointment for use on the skin and in lotion to apply to the scalp. Clobetasol is used once or twice a day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Use clobetasol exactly as directed. Do not use more or less of it or use it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Do not use clobetasol for longer than 14 days without your doctor's approval.
Thoroughly clean the infected area, allow it to dry, and then gently rub the medication in until most of it disappears. Use just enough medication to cover the affected area. You should wash your hands after applying the medication. The scalp lotion should be applied directly from the squeeze bottle to the affected area.
Clobetasol can be absorbed into your body if used in large amounts and can cause harmful effects.
Special precautions
Before using clobetasol:
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to clobetasol or any other drugs.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are using, including vitamins.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while using clobetasol, call your doctor.
What to do if you forget a dose
Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not apply a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Side effects
Clobetasol may cause side effects. If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor:
- itching, burning, or irritation on the area of skin where clobetasol is applied
If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online [at http://www.fda.gov/MedWatch/report.htm] or by phone [1-800-332-1088].
Storage conditions needed for this medication
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
Other information
Keep all appointments with your doctor. Clobetasol is for external use only. Do not let clobetasol get into your eyes, nose, or mouth, and do not swallow it. Do not apply dressings, bandages, cosmetics, lotions, or other skin medications to the area being treated unless your doctor tells you.
Do not let anyone else use your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.
If you still have symptoms of infection after you finish the clobetasol, call your doctor.
Brand names
- Clobevate®
- Cormax®
- Cormax® Scalp Application
- Embeline® E
- Olux®
- Temovate®
- Temovate® E
- Temovate® Scalp Application