What is Clobex Shampoo?

Clobex Shampoo or Clobetasol is used in adults to treat moderate to severe scalp psoriasis. Clobetasol reduces the swelling, itching and redness that can occur with this condition. This medication is a very strong (super-high-potency) corticosteroid. This medication is not recommended for use in children or those less than 18 years of age due to an increased risk of side effects.

Always read the patient information and instructions carefully before using this medication.

• This shampoo should be used only on the scalp. Avoid contact with the eyes, nose and mouth. Do not bandage, wrap or cover the affected area (for example, avoid using shower caps or bathing caps) unless directed by your doctor.
• Apply a thin film of shampoo to your dry scalp by squeezing the bottle directly over the affected area, once daily, or as directed by your doctor. Gently rub the shampoo into the affected area, leaving it on your scalp for 15 minutes.
• Wash your hands immediately after applying the shampoo. Then wet your scalp, lather, and rinse the shampoo off thoroughly. Also rinse any other body parts (e.g., hands, face, neck, shoulders) that may have come in contact with the shampoo. The use of another non-medicated shampoo is not necessary to clean your hair, although it may be used if desired.
• Do not apply this medication to your face, neck, groin, or underarms. Avoid using this medication close to the eyes or lips. Getting it in the eyes may worsen or cause glaucoma. If you get the shampoo in your eyes or on your lips, rinse thoroughly with plenty of water.
• Do not use this medication more often or for a longer period than prescribed because the risk of side effects may be increased. Do not use more than 50 milliliters (1.75 ounces) of shampoo per week. Treatment with this medication should be limited to 4 weeks. If your condition does not improve within 4 weeks, contact your doctor.
• Do not use if there is an infection or sore in the area to be treated.

Make sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist:

• If you have any drug allergies.
• Which other prescription and non-prescription medications you currently take.
• Your medical history, especially of: poor blood circulation, diabetes, other skin/scalp conditions (e.g., rosacea, perioral dermatitis), immune system problems.
• If you are pregnant, planning pregnancy or breast feeding.

Also be aware that:

• Rarely, using corticosteroid medications for a long time or over large areas of skin can make it more difficult for your body to respond to physical stress. Therefore, before having surgery or emergency treatment, or if you get a serious illness/injury, tell your doctor or dentist that you are using this medication or have used this medication within the past few months.
• Though it is unlikely, this medication may temporarily slow down a child's growth if used for a long time. See the doctor regularly so your child's height can be checked.

Common side-effects may include but are not limited to:

• Burning, stinging, itching, irritation, redness, discoloration, dry skin, hair loss, headache, or acne may occur when this medication is first applied to the scalp. This should disappear in a few days as your body adjusts to the medication.

Contact your doctor if you experience any of the following side-effects:

• Stretch marks (striae), skin thinning/discoloration, excessive hair growth, hair bumps (folliculitis).
• Unusual/extreme tiredness, weight loss, headache, swelling ankles/feet, increased thirst/urination, vision problems.
• Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

Q: What is the strength of Clobex Shampoo?
A: Clobex Shampoo comes in a strength of 0.05%