Clobetasol: Side Effects, Uses & Monitoring
CLOBEX® (clobetasol propionate) Lotion, 0.05% is a super-high potent corticosteroid formulation indicated for the relief of the inflammatory and pruritic manifestations of corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses only in pat
- Data source
- FDA labeling via NIH DailyMed (label a086ead1…)
- Label version
- current
- Last reviewed
- 2026
Reported adverse reactions
Reactions listed in current FDA labeling, with the highest frequency reported across summarized placebo-controlled trials.
| Adverse reaction (as reported in labeling) | Reported frequency* |
|---|---|
| Skin atrophy | 4.2% |
| Telangiectasia | 3.2% |
| Discomfort skin | 1.3% |
| Skin dry | 1% |
*Highest percentage reported for the active moiety across placebo-controlled trial tables in current FDA labeling. Values reflect trial reporting, not your individual risk.
Labeled uses (from FDA prescribing information)
CLOBEX® (clobetasol propionate) Lotion, 0.05% is a super-high potent corticosteroid formulation indicated for the relief of the inflammatory and pruritic manifestations of corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses only in patients 18 years of age or older (see PRECAUTIONS ). Treatment should be limited to 2 consecutive weeks. The total dosage should not exceed 50 g (50 mL or 1.75 fl.oz.) per week. For the treatment of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, localized lesions (less than 10% body surface area) that have not sufficiently improved after the initial 2-week treatment with CLOBEX® (clobetasol propionate) Lotion, 0.05% may be treated for up to 2 additional weeks. Any additional benefits of extending treatment should be weighed against the risk of HPA axis suppression before prescribing for more than 2 weeks. Patients should be instructed to use CLOBEX® (clobetasol propionate) Lotion, 0.05% for the minimum amount of time necessary to achieve the desired results (see PRECAUTIONS ). Use in patients younger than 18 years of age is not recommended due to numerically high rates of HPA axis suppression (see PRECAUTIONS: Pediatric Use ).
Conditions associated with Clobetasol in labeling
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Clobetasol used for?
FDA labeling lists the approved uses shown above under "Labeled uses." This summary is informational; only a qualified prescriber can determine whether a medication is appropriate for you.
What are the most commonly reported side effects of Clobetasol?
The table above shows adverse reactions and the highest frequencies reported in placebo-controlled trials summarized in current FDA labeling for Clobetasol. Individual risk varies.
Does Clobetasol require lab monitoring?
Monitoring needs vary. Ask your healthcare provider whether any lab tests apply while taking Clobetasol.
Where does this information come from?
All clinical facts on this page were extracted from the current FDA-registered product labeling for this ingredient, published by manufacturers through NIH DailyMed. See the source link below.
Medical disclaimer: Educational content extracted from public FDA labeling. Not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.