Clobex (Clobetasol Propionate)

What is Clobex?

Clobex is a corticosteroid formulation that has a very high potency. It contains clobetasol propionate that makes it suitable for topical dermatologic use. The corticosteroids are synthetic steroids that are particularly used as antipruritic and anti-inflammatory agents.

What is Clobex used for?

Clobex is indicated for the treatment of moderate to severe scalp psoriasis. It helps reduce itching, swelling and redness that may occur with this condition.

How does Clobex work?

There are certain chemicals in the body that cause inflammation, swelling and redness. Clobex reduces the action of these chemicals and provides relief.

How to use Clobex

Clobex is meant to be used only on the skin but not on face, groin or underarms, unless prescribed to do so by the doctor. Apply Clobex lotion after washing your hands properly. A thin film of the lotion is to be applied on the affected area and rubbed gently. The lotion should be used two times per day or as per the directions of the doctor. The area on which the lotion is applied should not be covered, wrapped or bandaged if the doctor has not told to do so.

The medication is not to be used near eyes as it can lead to glaucoma. Make sure that it does not get into eyes, mouth or nose. If it does, be prompt to wash it with plenty of water. The dosage should not be increased and the lotion should not be used for more than 2 weeks at a stretch.

Clobex warnings and precautions

If you are allergic to steroids or any other medication, do let your doctor know about it as the inactive agents in the lotion may aggravate the situation. If you have had skin, blood circulation, diabetes or any immune system problems, your pharmacist should know about it. If the area to be treated has an infection or allergy, avoid using Clobex there.

If you are going to have a surgery in the near future, let the doctor know that you have been using Clobex in the past. Due to high content of corticosteroid medication, the children might be more sensitive to the medication. If used for longer period, it can temporarily slow down the child’s growth but will not have any effects on the final adult height.

Do consult your doctor before you have to breastfeed your child or if you are pregnant.

What do I do if I have missed a Clobex dose?

If you have missed a Clobex dose, you should use it as soon as you get to remember about it. If the time for the next dose is near, skip the missed dose and follow the routine. Do not go for a double dose.

What do I do if I have taken a Clobex overdose?

If you have taken an overdose of Clobex, you should contact your doctor immediately.

Clobex interactions

It is important for your pharmacist to be aware of the medications that you have been taking in the past so that he is able to advise you on the possible drug interactions. Do not start or stop usage of the lotion or any other medicine without the advice of your doctor. If you are using any prescription, non-prescription or herbal products, tell your doctor about it. If you are using oral corticosteroids, topical corticosteroids and medicines to suppress the immune system, it is important to take the advice of your pharmacist before beginning the usage of Clobex.

Clobex side effects

Some side effects may occur with time when you are using Clobex lotion. Emergency medical help will be required if you have difficulty in breathing, hives, swelling on tongue, lips or throat. If you see severe irritation on the skin, stop using the medicine and let your doctor know about it. If Clobex is absorbed in your skin, you might see effects such as seeing halos around lights, blurred vision, insomnia, mood swings, feeling of tiredness, muscle weakness, weight gain and puffiness in the face.

Some of the less serious side effects of Clobex include mild skin rashes, redness, burning, itching, cracking or dry skin, softening or thinning skin, rashes and irritation around mouth, spider veins, swollen hair follicles, changing skin color of the treated area, pimples, blisters and stretch marks.