Indications
Clobetasol Propionate is indicated for adults, elderly and children over 1 year in following dermatoses.
Psoriasis (excluding widespread plaque psoriasis)
Recalcitrant dermatoses
Lichen planus
Discoid lupus erythematosus
Other skin conditions which do not respond satisfactorily to less potent steroids
Dosage:
Adults, elderly and children over 1 year: Apply a thin layer of Clobetasol Propionate Cream or Ointment to the affected skin areas twice daily and rub in gently and completely. Repeated short courses of Clobetasol Propionate may be used to control exacerbations. In more resistant lesions, especially where there is hyperkeratosis, the effect of Clobetasol can be enhanced, if necessary, by occluding the treatment area with polythene film. Overnight occlusion only is usually adequate to bring about a satisfactory response. Clobetasol Propionate is super-high potency topical corticosteroids; therefore, treatment should be limited to 2 consecutive weeks. The maximum weekly dose should not be exceeded 50 gm/week. In case of children, courses should be limited if possible to five days and reviewed weekly.
Interaction
Co-administered drugs that can inhibit CYP3A4 (eg ritonavir, itraconazole) have been shown to inhibit the metabolism of corticosteroids leading to increased systemic exposure.
Side Effects
The most reported side effects are burning and stinging sensation. Less frequent adverse reactions are itching, skin atrophy, cracking and fissuring of the skin. Cushing syndrome has been reported in infants and adults as a result of prolonged use of topical Clobetasol Propionate formulations.