Clobetasol propionate gel is a topical corticosteroid used to treat skin complications such as itching, redness, swelling, eczema, psoriasis, acne, minimal hypertrophic scars, and even dermatitis. It is more potent than many other skin treatment gels and, because of that, is usually available as a prescription-only drug. It works by limiting the activity of your immune system to lower inflammation and treat the skin.
It can be used separately or as part of a combination therapy, which means you may be advised to combine it with other medications such as antibiotics and antifungal medicines.
How To Use Clobetasol Propionate Gel
This gel is supposed to be strictly used on the skin. It should not be used elsewhere, unless under the direction of your dermatologist.
You can measure the right amount of gel using your fingertip. That should be enough for an area of the skin that is twice the size of your palm.
For children below the age of one, seek your doctor’s advice first before administering the medication.
Also, before using the gel, ensure that your hands and the affected area are clean. Spread the gel in a thin layer over the area and gently rub it in the direction your hair grows. It should be applied evenly to cover even the areas that are least affected. This should be done at least twice a day or as instructed by your doctor or dermatologist.
Do not apply the gel on broken skin or cuts, as this could be harmful. Also, avoid getting the gel into your nose or eyes as this may cause glaucoma. In case this happens, rinse with a lot of water.
After application, leave the affected area uncovered unless the doctor tells you otherwise. Remember to wash your hands immediately after.
This drug should not be shared with others. It is usually prescribed for you alone and your current condition only. Do not keep using it later for other skin problems unless with your doctor’s express permission.
The gel might be harmful if swallowed. In case it happens, and someone develops complications such as fainting or breathing problems, then medical attention should be sought immediately.
Dosage of Clobetasol Gel
The quantity to use and how long to use it depends on several factors such as your age, the severity of your condition, how your body reacts to the drug, and other medical conditions you might be having. For regular treatments, this clobetasol propionate gel is usually applied once or twice a day for a period of up to two weeks. If you’re using it twice a day, ensure you leave a gap of at least 8 hours before applying again.
If you are between the ages of 13 to 64, this gel could be applied to the affected areas of your skin twice per day. If you’re above 65, organs such as your kidneys, liver, and heart may not work as well as those of a younger person. This means that this drug will be processed more slowly. Therefore, it ends up staying in the body longer, which increases the risk of side effects.
Those below 12 years should consult their doctor on dosage. But generally, you should not use it on them for more than five days unless with the doctor’s advice. The doctor may decide to give you an initial lower dosage and adjust accordingly after observation.
It is essential to follow the directions of your doctor strictly. Also, be careful not to use it for more than two weeks straight and do not exceed the recommended amount, usually 50 grams per week. In case your condition is not improving after the recommended 2-week period, or if you develop any complications after using it, let your doctor know immediately.
Clobetasol Propionate Gel Side effects
Incidences of severe side effects are rare. The likelihood and severity of the side effects depend on the size of the area of the skin you are applying to.
It is common to experience a burning or stinging sensation for a few minutes after applying clobetasol propionate gel. This could go on for a few days as your body adjusts, but it should not take too long. This is nothing out of the norm, but you should promptly inform your doctor if it persists.
Another possible and potentially dangerous side effect of using clobetasol propionate gel is that it may cause your adrenal glands to fail, which could lead to adrenal insufficiency. The symptoms of adrenal glands failure include low blood pressure, dizziness, and fatigue. This may happen during or after treatment.
In some rare occurrences, the gel might be absorbed into the bloodstream. This may cause the bloodstream to have excess corticosteroids and might lead to side effects such as headaches, swelling feet, and increased thirst and urination. This would be dangerous, especially for children and for those who use this gel for long periods.
Although extremely rare, this medication may lead to slow growth in younger children if used for a long time. Therefore, if you have a child who is using this gel, ensure that you or the doctor monitors their height and weight throughout so that any growth issues can be arrested and addressed quickly enough.
Other possible side effects of using this gel for long periods include stretch marks or skin discoloration and thinning. Sometimes you might also experience allergic reactions like skin rashes, hives, and swelling of the tongue or lips. If you experience any of these severe complications, discontinue the use of this gel, and notify your doctor immediately.
You or your doctor might also decide to conduct periodic tests to track your progress and check for side effects. This is important, mainly when you’ve used the gel for an extended period or apply it over vast areas of your body.
Interactions
Interaction occurs when a substance interferes with the way certain medications work. This is dangerous as it may increase the risk of side effects and prevent the medicines from working as they should.
Clobetasol propionate gel can interact with other medications or substances you may be taking. To prevent this, notify your doctor in advance of the medicines, supplements, and other products you might be using. This includes both prescription and non-prescription products.
It is equally critical to disclose if you drink alcohol or use any other drugs. Also, manage all your medications as you should. For example, do not alter the dosages of any medications you’re taking without consulting your doctor first.
Also, avoid using cosmetics or other skincare products in the affected area. You should also keep off any corticosteroids such as prednisone as this could increase the steroid levels in your body, which can have disastrous effects. As noted above, it could lead to adrenal failure, among other adverse effects.
Precautions
There is not enough information for pregnant or lactating mothers to know whether clobetasol propionate gel is safe to use. For this reason, consult your doctor so you can discuss the benefits and potential risks of using the gel. As a general rule of thumb for pregnant women, this gel should only be used if it’s absolutely necessary.
It is yet to be established for breastfeeding mothers if this gel can be passed in breast milk. But for the safety of your baby, it is good to be careful.
If your doctor has given you the green light to use this gel, ensure that you do not feed the baby before cleaning your hands and breasts. After applying it on your breasts, take a considerable amount of time before washing it from your breasts and breastfeeding your baby.
Before using this gel, it is good to find out if you’re allergic to clobetasol or any other corticosteroid. Make sure you reveal this information to your doctor. It would also help the doctor know your medical history, especially if you suffer from blood circulation or immune system issues or skin conditions.
In case there is an infection, crack, or sore present in the affected area, do not apply this gel. If you are scheduled to have surgery or emergency treatment, you should notify the doctor that you are under this medication or have used it in recent months or weeks.
If you have problems with your liver, then you might want to avoid using this gel. This is because the liver processes the drug and, therefore, if you have severe liver complications, then the liver might not be able to break down clobetasol. If this drug builds up in your body, you might be at a big risk of side effects.
Bottom Line
As with other medications, keep this gel out of the reach of children. Also, keep it away from heat and direct sunlight. The ideal temperature for clobetasol propionate gel is between 15 and 30 degrees. Once you are done with it, you can dispose of it off.
