Drug reference

Clobetasol

Corticosteroid · Treatment of severe resistant inflammatory skin disorders, recalcitrant eczemas, and psoriasis

Also known as Clobetasol propionate

CorticosteroidTreatment of severe resistant inflammatory skin disorders, recalcitrant eczemas, and psoriasis

CDSCO approved

EXCRETION

—

not curated

INTERACTIONS

—

none in our sources

PREGNANCY

—

not curated

Mechanism

Clobetasol propionate is a super-potent (Class I) topical corticosteroid that binds to intracellular glucocorticoid receptors in dermal and epidermal cells, translocating to the nucleus to suppress transcription of pro-inflammatory genes including IL-1, IL-6, and TNF-α. Its propionate ester enhances lipophilicity and skin penetration, achieving the highest topical potency among available corticosteroids. Prolonged use carries significant risk of skin atrophy, striae, and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis suppression due to systemic absorption.

Indications

Short-term treatment of severe resistant inflammatory skin disorders such as recalcitrant eczemas unresponsive to less potent corticosteroidsPsoriasisModerate scalp psoriasis

Dosing

Adult: Apply 1 – 2 times a day for up to 4 weeks, to be applied thinly, maximum 50 g of 0.05% preparation per week. For moderate scalp psoriasis (shampoo): Apply once daily, maximum duration 4 weeks, to be applied thinly then rinsed off after 15 minutes; frequency of application should be reduced after clinical improvement.
Pediatric: Child 1–17 years: Apply 1–2 times a day for up to 4 weeks, to be applied thinly.
Max dose: 50 g of 0.05% preparation per week