Clobetasol Propionate (Scalp Preparation)

• Seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp

Clobetasol Propionate scalp solution is indicated in the topical therapy of recalcitrant corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses of the scalp, including recalcitrant cases of psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis.

N/A

Infections of the scalp Hypersensitivity to the preparation Use is not indicated in dermatoses in children under one year of age

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.

As with other corticosteroids, prolonged use of large amounts or treatment of extensive areas, can result in sufficient systemic absorption to produce the features of hypercortisolism. This effect is more likely to occur in infants and children, and if occlusive dressings are used. Local atrophy may occur after prolonged treatment. In rare instances, treatment of psoriasis with corticosteroids (or its withdrawal) is thought to have provoked the pustular form of the disease. If signs of hypersensitivity appear with the use of Clobetasol Propionate Scalp Solution then application should be stopped immediately.

Topical administration of corticosteroids to pregnant animals can cause abnormalities of foetal development. The relevance of this finding to human beings has not been established; however, topical steroids should not used extensively in pregnancy, i.e. in large amounts for prolonged periods. The safe use of Clobetasol Propionate during lactation has not been established.

Care must be taken to keep the preparation away from the eyes. Long-term continuous therapy with Clobetasol Propionate scalp solution should be avoided where possible, particularly in infants and children, as adrenal suppression can occur even without occlusion. Topical corticosteroids may be hazardous in psoriasis for a number of reasons including rebound relapses, development of tolerance, risk of generalized pustular psoriasis and development of local or systemic toxicity due to impaired barrier function of the skin. If used on psoriasis, careful patient supervision is important. Appropriate antimicrobial therapy should be used whenever treating inflammatory lesions which have become infected. Any spread of infection requires withdrawal of topical corticosteroid therapy and systemic administration of antimicrobial agents. Bacterial infection is encouraged by the warm, moist conditions induced by occlusive dressings, and so the skin should be cleansed before a fresh dressing is applied.