Description

Clobetasol Propionate is a very potent topical corticosteroid. It has anti-inflammatory, antipruritic and vasoconstrictive properties. It shows anti-inflammatory activity via multiple mechanisms to inhibit late phase allergic reactions. It decreases the density of mast cells, chemotaxis and activation of eosinophils. It also reduces cytokine production and inhibits the metabolism of arachidonic acid.

Co-administered drugs that can inhibit CYP3A4 (eg ritonavir, itraconazole) have been shown to inhibit the metabolism of corticosteroids leading to increased systemic exposure.

It is contraindicated in patient with hypersensitivity to any component of the preparation. It should not be used in rosacea, acne vulgaris, perioral dermatitis, perianal and genital pruritus, pruritus without inflammation, untreated cutaneous infections.

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.

There are limited data from the use of Clobetasol Propionate cream in pregnant women. Topical administration of corticosteroids to pregnant animals can cause abnormalities of foetal development. The relevance of this finding to humans has not been established. However, the administration of Clobetasol Propionate Cream during pregnancy and lactation should only be considered if the expected benefit to the mother outweighs the possible risks of treatment. It is unknown whether this drug is excreted in human milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, caution should be exercised when Clobetasol Propionate Cream is administered to a nursing woman.