Clobetasol

Clobetasol is a medicine to relieve itching, redness, and discomfort in the skin caused by inflammation. Clobetasol belongs to the class of corticosteroid anti- inflammatory drugs .

Clobetasol works by activating natural substances in the skin that can reduce inflammation and the symptoms caused by it. This drug can be used in various inflammatory conditions of the skin, such as those caused by eczema , psoriasis, dermatitis, lichen planus , or lupus .

Clobetasol is an oily corticosteroid that is more effective than other types. Therefore, this medicine can only be used based on a doctor's prescription.

Clobetasol trademarks: Clobetol, CLS, Dermosol, Dermovate, Elopro, Esclob, Grabeta, Kloderma, Lotasbat, Psoriderm Simovate

What is Clobetasol

Warnings Before Using Clobetasol

Before using clobetasol, you need to pay attention to the following things:

• Do not use clobetasol if you have a history of allergy to this drug or other corticosteroid drugs.
• Tell your doctor if you are suffering from a skin infection or other skin problem, such as acne or rosacea , and if you have a history of diabetes, Cushing's syndrome , or liver disease.
• Do not use clobetasol around the eyes, mouth, genitals, or anus. If you accidentally touch the area, immediately rinse with clean water.
• Do not use clobetasol on the face, groin, or armpits, unless directed by a doctor.
• Do not use clobetasol on skin that has open wounds, burns, or that is draining fluid or pus.
• Consult with a doctor about the benefits and risks of side effects that need to be anticipated from the use of clobetasol in children, especially those under 12 years of age.
• Tell your doctor if you are using other medications, including other topical medications, supplements, and herbal products, to prevent drug interactions.
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.
• Tell your doctor that you are using clobetasol if you are scheduled to undergo surgery, including dental surgery.
• See a doctor immediately if a drug allergic reaction occurs after using clobetasol.

Dosage and Administration of Clobetasol

The dose of clobetasol given by the doctor to each patient can vary depending on the age and type of skin disease to be treated. The following are the general doses of clobetasol:

Condition: Inflammation of the skin (dermatosis)

Form: Ointment and cream

• Adults : Apply 1-2 times a day until the condition improves. The maximum dose is 50 gr per week with a maximum duration of 4 weeks.
• Children ≥12 years: same as adult dose. Duration of use should not exceed 5 days.

Form: External medicinal liquid (lotion)

• Adults: Apply 2 times a day. The maximum dose is 50 gr per week, with a maximum duration of use of 2 weeks.

Condition: Inflammation of the scalp

Form: External medicinal liquid (lotion)

• Adults: Apply to the scalp 1–2 times a day in the morning and at night. The maximum dose is 50 gr per week and the maximum duration of use is 4 weeks.
• Children ≥12 years: same as adult dose. The duration of use is tried to be less than 1 week.

It is recommended not to use clobetasol in children under 12 years of age. If you want to use clobetasol in children, follow the advice and recommendations of the doctor.

How to Use Clobetasol Correctly

Follow your doctor 's advice and always read the instructions on the package before using clobetasol. Do not change the dose of clobetasol unless advised by a doctor.

Wash and dry your hands before using clobetasol. Apply cream or ointment on the skin area to be treated. Wash your hands after applying clobetasol unless you are treating your hands.

To use clobetasol in the form of a liquid (lotion) on the hair, drop enough medicine on the dry scalp. Gently massage the area where the medicine dripped and let it dry.

Do not use clobetasol together with other creams or ointments, as well as skin moisturizers. Make sure there is a gap of at least 30 minutes between the use of clobetasol and other oily products on the same area.

It is recommended not to cover the surface of the skin that has been smeared with clobetasol, especially if used on children. If you need to use a bandage or plaster, wait at least 10 minutes after using clobetasol.

If you forget to use clobetasol, use it immediately so remember if the break with the next schedule is not too close. When it is close, ignore the missed dose and do not double the next dose.

Clobetasol should not be used long term. Immediately consult a doctor if the complaints you experience do not improve after the duration of treatment recommended by the doctor.

Store clobetasol in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep this medicine out of the reach of children.

Interactions of Clobetasol with Other Drugs

The following are some interactions that can occur if using clobetasol together with certain medicines:

• Increased risk of side effects from clobetasol if used with ritonavir and itraconazole
• Decreased effectiveness of insulin or other diabetes medications, especially if clobetasol is used in large amounts or over a large area

Side Effects and Dangers of Clobetasol

There are several side effects that may arise due to the use of clobetasol, among others:

• Itching, irritation, redness, or heat in the skin
• Acne
• Dry or cracked skin
• The skin becomes thin and shiny
• Red or purple spots or lines appear under the skin
• Bruises appeared on the skin
• Skin color changes

Check with a doctor if the side effects mentioned above do not subside or worsen. See a doctor immediately if you experience a serious drug allergic reaction or side effect, such as:

• Visual impairment
• The skin that is smeared with medicine looks red, swollen, and puss
• A severe rash appears on the skin
• Weight gain drastically
• Disproportionate body shape changes
• The body is limp and the muscles feel weak to move
• Depression or irritability
• Symptoms of high blood sugar ( hyperglycemia ), such as thirst, frequent urination, or fruity breath