Clobetasol is a steroid medicine that's used on the skin to treat swelling, itching and irritation. Although it is a steroid, it's not the same as anabolic steroids.
Clobetasol is a very strong steroid. It works by reducing the swelling (inflammation), itching and pain caused by an allergic reaction or irritation.
It can help with skin problems such as:
Clobetasol is available on prescription only.
It comes as a cream, ointment, scalp treatment and shampoo.
There is also a cream and ointment called clobetasone which sounds similar to clobetasol. Clobetasone is much milder and you can buy it from pharmacies or shops.
Clobetasol is also available as a medicine combined with an antibiotic (neomycin sulfate) and an antifungal (nystatin). This is only available on prescription.
Key facts
- Do not put clobetasol on your face unless your doctor says it's OK. It can make some skin problems on the face worse.
- Clobetasol starts to work after a few days. You can use it for up to 4 weeks.
- If you have applied clobetasol to your skin, wait at least 30 minutes before using another product, like a moisturiser.
- If your doctor has prescribed high doses of clobetasol to control your symptoms you may need to carry a steroid emergency card. Ask your pharmacist or doctor.
- Dried skin cream on your clothes or bedding makes them more likely to catch fire (flammable). Avoid naked flames.
- If you use clobetasol for a long time your doctor might advise you to reduce your dose gradually to avoid withdrawal reactions.