CLOBETASOL (kloe BAY ta sol) reduces swelling, redness, itching, or rashes caused by skin conditions, such as eczema and psoriasis. It works by decreasing inflammation of the skin. It belongs to a group of medications called topical steroids.
What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
High blood sugar (diabetes)
Large areas of burned or damaged skin
Liver disease
Skin infection
An unusual or allergic reaction to clobetasol, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
Breast-feeding
How should I use this medication?
This medication is for external use only. Do not take by mouth. Wash your hands before and after use. Do not use on healthy skin or over large areas of skin. Do not get this medication in your eyes. If you do, rinse it out with plenty of cool tap water. Use it as directed on the label at the same time every day. Do not use it more often than directed or for a longer time period than prescribed by your care team. Keep taking it unless your care team tells you to stop.
Apply a thin film to the affected area and rub gently. Do not bandage or wrap the skin being treated unless directed to do so by your care team.
Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. While it may be prescribed for children as young as 12 for selected conditions, precautions do apply.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.
What may interact with this medication?
Interactions are not expected. Do not use cosmetics or other skin care products on the treated area.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?
Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:
Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
Burning, itching, crusting, or peeling of treated skin
Fragile or thinning skin that bruises easily
Skin infection—skin redness, swelling, warmth, or pain
Small, red, pus-filled bumps on the skin around hair follicles
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):
Mild skin irritation, redness, or dryness
Unexpected hair growth at application site
What should I watch for while using this medication?
Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. Tell your care team if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse.
This medication can damage and reduce the effect of latex-containing products such as condoms and diaphragms. Avoid contact of this medication with latex-containing products; throw away any products that are exposed to this medication.
Do not use this medication for diaper rash unless directed to do so by your care team. If applying this medication to the diaper area, do not cover with tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants. This may increase the amount of medication that passes through the skin and increase the risk of serious effects.
Where should I keep my medication?
Keep out of the reach of children and pets.
Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Do not refrigerate. Get rid of any unused medication after the expiration date.
This medication is flammable. Avoid exposure to heat, fire, flame, and smoking.
K Health articles are all written and reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, or PharmDs and are for informational purposes only. This information does not constitute and should not be relied on for professional medical advice. Always talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of any treatment.
This information is educational only and should not be construed as specific instructions for individual patients nor as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Talk to your health care provider or pharmacist about the information and instructions. K Health assumes no liability for any use or reliance on this information.
