How does clobetasone work?
When you have an allergic reaction or skin irritation, various chemicals are released in the skin. This can cause your blood vessels to widen which irritates the skin and makes it swollen, itchy, painful and red.
Clobetasone cream and ointment contain an ingredient called clobetasone butyrate. This is a corticosteroid or steroid, which reduces inflammation in the skin.
Clobetasone works inside the skin cells to stop the release of these chemicals. This reduces the swelling, redness and itching.
When will my skin get better?
Your skin should start to get better after you've used clobetasone for a few days.
You may need to use it for a few weeks if it has been prescribed by your doctor for skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis.
Why is clobetasone not recommended for faces?
The skin on your face is delicate so using it over a long period of time may cause thinning of the skin.
Do not use clobetasone on your face unless a doctor says it's OK and has given you a prescription for it. If your doctor has prescribed it for use on your face, it's best not to use it for any more than 5 days.
Do not let clobetasone ointment get into your eyes.
Some common skin problems that affect the face, such as impetigo, rosacea and acne, can be made worse by clobetasone.
Can steroids make eczema worse?
Steroids like clobetasone work by reducing swelling (inflammation) in the skin to help reduce the symptoms. However, they do not cure the condition.
If you feel your symptoms are getting worse after a week of using clobetasone, it's important that you speak to your doctor.
When you stop treatment, skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis can flare up again.
You can avoid this by gradually reducing the amount of cream or ointment you apply, or how often you apply it. Do this over a week or two, before stopping it completely.
Can I still have vaccinations?
Using clobetasone does not prevent you or your child having vaccinations.
But tell your doctor or nurse that you're using clobetasone so they can give you the vaccine in an untreated area of your skin.
Will it affect my contraception?
Clobetasone does not affect any type of contraception, including the combined pill or emergency contraception.
Can I drive or ride a bike?
Clobetasone does not make you sleepy so it's safe to drive or ride a bike when using this medicine.
Can I drink alcohol while using clobetasone?
Yes, you can drink alcohol while using clobetasone.
Is there any food or drink I need to avoid?
No, you can eat and drink normally while using clobetasone.