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Clobetasol Shampoo

What is this medication?

CLOBETASOL (kloe BAY ta sol) reduces swelling, redness, itching, or rashes caused by skin conditions, such as psoriasis. It works by decreasing inflammation of the skin. It belongs to a group of medications called topical steroids.

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This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Clobex, Clodan

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • High blood sugar (diabetes)
  • Large areas of burned or damaged skin
  • Liver disease
  • Skin infection
  • An unusual or allergic reaction to clobetasol, steroids, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
  • Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
  • Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medication is for external use only. Do not take by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Wash your hands before and after use. Do not wet hair before using the shampoo. Move the hair and apply the shampoo directly to the affected area of the scalp. Gently rub in the shampoo and leave on the scalp for 15 minutes. Do not cover your head with a shower cap or bathing cap while the shampoo is on your scalp. After 15 minutes, add water, lather, and rinse your scalp completely. Do not get this medication in your eyes. If you do, rinse out with plenty of cool tap water. Do not use it more often than directed or for a longer time period than prescribed by your care team. Keep taking it unless your care team tells you to stop.

This medication comes with INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE. Ask your pharmacist for directions on how to use this medication. Read the information carefully. Talk to your pharmacist or care team if you have questions.

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Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medication?

Interactions are not expected. Do not use cosmetics or other skin care products on the treated area.

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. Tell your care team if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse.

This medication can damage and reduce the effect of latex-containing products such as condoms and diaphragms. Avoid contact of this medication with latex-containing products; throw away any products that are exposed to this medication.

Do not use this medication for diaper rash unless directed to do so by your care team. If applying this medication to the diaper area, do not cover with tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants. This may increase the amount of medication that passes through the skin and increase the risk of serious effects.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

  • Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Burning, itching, crusting, or peeling of treated skin
  • Fragile or thinning skin that bruises easily
  • Small, red, pus-filled bumps on the skin around hair follicles
  • Skin infection—skin redness, swelling, warmth, or pain

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

  • Mild skin irritation, redness, or dryness

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Keep the container tightly closed. Get rid of any unused medication after the expiration date.

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NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

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Note: Introduction and Additional Common Questions written and medically approved by Cleveland Clinic professionals.

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