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What is Clobetasol Propionate?

By HERWriter
 
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woman-moisturizing-skin Photo: Getty Images

If you have skin issues or irritations like allergies or psoriasis your doctor or dermatologist may prescribe clobetasol propionate (pronounced kloe-BAY-ta-sol PROE-pee-oh-nate).

Clobetasol propionate is for external use only and only available with a medical prescription. This drug is also classified as a corticosteroid.

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), ʺ[cortico]steroids are similar to hormones that your adrenal glands produce to fight stress associated with illnesses and injuries. They reduce inflammation and affect the immune system.ʺ

Clobetasol propionate comes in the following forms:
• Lotion
• Cream
• Spray
• Foam
• Shampoo
• Gel/Jelly
• Liquid
• Ointment

As is the case with many medications, you might not be able to use clobetasol propionate. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC), ʺYou should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to clobetasol. You might not be able to use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to other corticosteroids such as hydrocortisone, triamcinolone, or betamethasone.ʺ

Also, keep this medication at room temperature. Do not freeze or store this medication near excessive heat. If you miss or forget to apply an application, do not worry apply immediately or wait until your next scheduled application. Do not wear makeup or other cosmetic lotions with this medication.

The UMMC website also recommends the following when using clobetasol propionate:

• Apply a thin layer to the affected area. Rub it in gently.
• Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often.
• Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
• This medicine is not for long-term use.
• Do not use this medicine for more than two weeks unless directed by your doctor.
• This medicine is for use on the skin only.
• Do not get it in your eyes, nose, or mouth. Do not use it on skin areas that have cuts or scrapes. If it does get on these areas, rinse it off right away.
• Wash your hands with soap and water before and after using this medicine.
• Make sure your skin is clean and dry before applying this medicine.
• Do not cover, wrap, or wear tight fitting clothes over your treated skin areas unless directed by your doctor.
• Allow the liquid to dry before putting on your clothes.
• Apply the shampoo form of this medicine to your dry scalp. Part your hair so that you only treat the affected areas. Apply a small amount to the area, massage gently, and leave it on for 15 minutes. Add water, lather and rinse well.
• You should not use the shampoo or spray on your face, armpits, or groin area unless your doctor tells you to.
• Do not inhale the spray or use it near heat, open flame, or while smoking. Do not puncture, break, or burn the aerosol can.
• This medicine comes with patient instructions. Read and follow these instructions carefully. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

Clobetasol Propionate is not recommended to be used in children under the age of 12 and only under a doctor's guidance by pregnant or nursing mothers.

References:

Clobetasol Propionate Ointment USP, 0.05%. DailyMed. Retrieved February 23, 2012, from
http://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/archives/fdaDrugInfo.cfm?archiveid=5866

Clobetasol propionate (On the skin). University of Maryland Medical Center | Home. Retrieved February 23, 2012, from http://www.umm.edu/drug/notes/Clobetasol-propionate-On-the-skin.htm

Steroids. National Library of Medicine – National Institutes of Health. Retrieved February 23, 2012, from
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/steroids.html

Uses Of Clobetasol Propionate Cream | LIVESTRONG.COM. LIVESTRONG.COM - Lose Weight & Get Fit with Diet, Nutrition & Fitness Tools | LIVESTRONG.COM. Retrieved February 23, 2012, from
http://www.livestrong.com/article/189672-uses-of-clobetasol-propionate-cream

Reviewed February 23, 2012
by Michele Blacksberg RN
Edited by Jody Smith

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We value and respect our HERWriters' experiences, but everyone is different. Many of our writers are speaking from personal experience, and what's worked for them may not work for you. Their articles are not a substitute for medical advice, although we hope you can gain knowledge from their insight.

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