Generic Clobetasol 0.05%

Introduction

Clobetasol .05 % is a high‑potency topical corticosteroid used primarily to relieve inflammatory skin disorders. In the United Kingdom it is prescribed for conditions where rapid suppression of inflammation and immune activity is required. The medication contains the active compound clobetasol, belongs to the skin‑care group of prescription medicines, and is manufactured by several pharmaceutical companies under licence. It is also employed off‑label for certain stubborn dermatoses when other therapies have failed.

What is Clobetasol .05 %?

Clobetasol .05 % is the generic version of the well‑known brand Dermovate (GSK) and Temovate (formerly Clobex). Both brand‑name products contain the same active molecule, clobetasol propionate, at a concentration of .05 % (w/w). Our online pharmacy provides this generic alternative as a cost‑effective treatment option that meets the same UK Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) standards as the branded formulations.

Clobetasol belongs to the class of super‑potent (Class I) corticosteroids. It was first developed in the 197s and has been refined to improve skin penetration while limiting systemic absorption. The medication is supplied as a cream, ointment, or scalp solution, each designed for optimal delivery to the affected area.

How Clobetasol .05 % Works

Clobetasol is a synthetic glucocorticoid that binds to intracellular glucocorticoid receptors. The drug‑receptor complex then translocates to the cell nucleus where it:

• Inhibits pro‑inflammatory transcription factors such as NF‑κB and AP‑1, reducing cytokine and chemokine production.
• Suppresses the migration of immune cells (e.g., T‑lymphocytes, eosinophils) into the skin.
• Stabilises lysosomal membranes and diminishes the release of arachidonic‑acid metabolites (prostaglandins, leukotrienes).

The net effect is rapid reduction of erythema, edema, itching, and scaling. Because clobetasol penetrates the stratum corneum efficiently, therapeutic effect can be observed within 24–48 hours of application, although the full benefit often emerges after 5–7 days of consistent use. Systemic exposure remains low when applied to limited surface areas, but prolonged use over large areas can increase systemic absorption and potential side‑effects.

Conditions Treated with Clobetasol .05 %

The UK‑approved indications for clobetasol .05 % include:

• Psoriasis vulgaris – especially plaque psoriasis resistant to milder steroids.
• Seborrhoeic dermatitis – when inflammation is severe or unresponsive to standard treatments.
• Eczema (atopic dermatitis) – for acute flares in localized regions.
• Lichen planus – particularly hypertrophic or erosive forms.
• Discoid lupus erythematosus – as an adjunct to systemic therapy for cutaneous lesions.
• Discontinuous or hyperkeratotic hand eczema – where barrier disruption is pronounced.
• Scalp psoriasis and severe dandruff – provided as a scalp solution.

Epidemiologically, psoriasis affects approximately 2 % of the UK population, with around 10 % requiring potent topical therapy. Atopic dermatitis prevalence in adults is ~5–10 %, and a subset experiences severe flares that necessitate a class‑I steroid such as clobetasol. The drug’s high potency makes it especially valuable for thick‑skinned areas (palms, soles) where lower‑strength steroids cannot penetrate adequately.

Who is Clobetasol .05 % For?

Clobetasol .05 % is indicated for adult patients (≥ 18 years) with the above‑listed dermatoses who require rapid symptom control. It is most appropriate when:

• The lesion is localized (generally ≤ 10 % of body surface area).
• Prior treatment with medium‑potency steroids (e.g., betamethasone valerate .05 %) has been ineffective.
• The skin is thickened or hyperkeratotic, demanding a super‑potent agent for adequate penetration.

Contra‑indications and cautions include:

• Children under 12 years (unless specifically prescribed by a dermatologist).
• Patients with viral skin infections (herpes simplex,icella‑zoster) in the treated area.
• Individuals with known hypersensitivity to clobetasol or any excipient in the formulation.
• Those with extensive cutaneous atrophy, perioral dermatitis, or occlusive dressings that could increase systemic absorption.

Physicians often limit treatment duration to 2–4 weeks for most indications, followed by a tapering schedule to minimise rebound inflammation and adrenal suppression risk.

Risks, Side Effects, and Interactions

Common

• Burning, stinging, or itching at the application site.
• Mild skin irritation or erythema.
• Dryness or flaking of the treated skin.

Rare

• Folliculitis or secondary bacterial infection of the skin.
• Hypopigmentation or hyperpigmentation of the treated area.
• Localised urticaria or contact dermatitis to the vehicle (cream/ointment).

Serious

• Cutaneous atrophy – thinning of the skin, especially with prolonged use on thin surfaces (e.g., face, genitalia).
• Telangiectasia – visible small blood vessels due to chronic steroid exposure.
• Systemic adrenal suppression – rare but possible when large body surface areas are treated for > 2 weeks.
• Glaucoma or cataract formation – associated with ocular exposure to steroid; patients should avoid contact with eyes.

Drug–Drug Interactions

Clobetasol is a topical agent, so systemic interactions are uncommon. However, caution is advised when used together with:

• Systemic corticosteroids (e.g., prednisolone) – additive risk of adrenal suppression.
• Cyclosporine or tacrolimus – combined immunosuppression may increase infection risk.
• Antifungal or antibacterial topical agents – potent steroids can mask infection signs; monitor closely.

Patients should always inform their healthcare professional of all concomitant medications, including over‑the‑counter skin products.

Practical Use: Dosing, Missed Dose, Overdose

• Standard dosing – Apply a thin layer to the affected skin once daily (often in the evening) for up to 2 weeks. For scalp solutions, massage gently into the hair and scalp, leaving it on for at least 30 minutes before washing.
• Missed dose – If a dose is forgotten, apply it as soon as remembered unless it is near the time of the next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume the regular schedule; do not double‑apply.
• Overdose – Accidental application of a larger amount than prescribed usually causes only local irritation. However, if large surface areas have been covered or prolonged occlusion has occurred, seek medical advice promptly for assessment of possible systemic effects.
• Precautions –
  • Do not use on broken skin, open wounds, or infected lesions without medical supervision.
  • Avoid contact with eyes, mucous membranes, and the perianal region.
  • Do not use under plastic dressings or occlusive bandages unless specifically directed, as this can increase absorption.
  • Alcohol consumption does not directly affect topical clobetasol but may exacerbate skin irritation if the patient uses alcohol‑based hand sanitiser on treated areas.

Buying Clobetasol .05 % from Our Online Pharmacy

Clobetasol .05 % can be purchased from our online pharmacy in the UK. We specialise in providing verified, high‑quality generic medications at prices close to the manufacturer’s cost. Key benefits include:

• Affordable pricing – Our wholesale sourcing reduces the retail margin, making the generic clobetasol considerably cheaper than most brand‑name alternatives.
• Verified quality – All batches are sourced from licensed overseas manufacturers that meet MHRA‑equivalent Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards. Independent batch testing confirms potency and purity.
• Guaranteed delivery – Discreet, reliable shipping options are available, with express delivery within 7 days for most UK postcodes and regular airmail in ≈ 3 weeks for remote locations.
• Online‑only access – We operate as a pharmacy‑broker service, partnering with internationally licensed pharmacies. This model allows us to supply medicines that may be scarce or unavailable through conventional UK pharmacies, while maintaining strict privacy protections for all customers.

Our service is designed for adults who may have limited access to a local pharmacy, who require a cost‑effective generic alternative, or who prefer the convenience of discreet home delivery.

FAQ

• Is Clobetasol .05 % available in both brand‑name and generic forms in the UK?
  Yes. The original brand‑name products are Dermovate and Temovate, while generic clobetasol .05 % is manufactured by several licensed suppliers. Both contain the same active ingredient and are subject to the same regulatory scrutiny.

• Does Clobetasol .05 % require refrigeration?
  No, the product should be stored at controlled room temperature (15–25 °C). Refrigeration is unnecessary and may alter the consistency of creams or ointments.

• What packaging does Clobetasol .05 % come in when ordered online?
  It is typically supplied in a sealed, foil‑lined tube (30 g or 50 g) or a pump‑dispensed bottle for the scalp solution. Each package includes an information leaflet that meets MHRA specifications.

• Can Clobetasol .05 % be safely imported into the UK for personal use?
  Personal import of a single prescription‑only medicine for personal use is permitted under UK customs regulations, provided the total quantity does not exceed a three‑month supply and the buyer possesses a valid prescription from a UK‑registered clinician.

• Are there specific warnings for Asian populations using Clobetasol?
  No ethnicity‑specific contraindications have been identified. However, all patients should be cautioned about the risk of skin atrophy, which can be more apparent in individuals with lighter skin tones.

• Do formulations differ between the EU and the US?
  Both regions market clobetasol propionate .05 % as a cream, ointment, or solution, but excipient compositions can vary slightly (e.g., different emulsifiers). These variations do not affect the clinical potency but may influence the feel of the product on the skin.

• What is the recommended shelf‑life after opening the tube?
  Once opened, the cream or ointment remains stable for 12 months if kept tightly capped, stored away from heat and direct sunlight, and not contaminated with other substances.

• How doesobetasol compare to betamethasone valerate .05 %?
  Clobetasol is a super‑potent (Class I) corticosteroid, whereas betamethasone valerate is medium‑potency (Class III). Clobetasol provides faster and more profound anti‑inflammatory effects but carries a higher risk of local atrophy and systemic absorption, so it is reserved for more severe or recalcitrant lesions.

• Can I use clobetasol on my scalp while shampooing daily?
  The scalp solution is usually applied once daily, left on for at least 30 minutes, and then washed off. Daily shampooing is acceptable after the medication has been rinsed, but washing immediately after application reduces drug absorption and efficacy.

• Is there a risk of a positive drug test due to topical clobetasol?
  Topical application to limited skin areas rarely leads to detectable systemic levels in standard drug‑screening assays. However, extensive or occluded use could, in theory, produce low‑level systemic exposure; this is not typically a concern for workplace testing.

• What are the inactive ingredients in the cream formulation?
  Common excipients include purified water, cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, isopropyl myristate, and polysorbate 60. These components aid in drug solubility and skin absorption but are generally well tolerated.

• Has clobetasol been studied in clinical trials for scalp psoriasis?
  Yes. Randomised controlled trials have demonstrated that a .05 % clobetasol scalp solution leads to significant reduction in scalp erythema and scaling after 4 weeks, with a favourable safety profile when used as directed.

Glossary

Glucocorticoid receptor

A protein inside cells that binds corticosteroids, triggering changes in gene expression that suppress inflammation.

Cutaneous atrophy

Thinning of the skin layers, often appearing as a fragile, translucent area after prolonged use of potent topical steroids.

Adrenal suppression

Decreased production of endogenous cortisol by the adrenal glands, which can occur when systemic corticosteroid levels become sufficiently high.

Occlusive dressing

A covering (e.g., plastic wrap or tight bandage) that prevents air and moisture exchange, potentially increasing topical drug absorption.

⚠️ Disclaimer

The information provided about Clobetasol .05 % is for general knowledge only. It does not replace professional medical consultation. All treatment decisions should be made under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider. We assume all readers are responsible adults capable of making informed decisions about their health. Our online pharmacy offers access to Clobetasol .05 % for individuals who may have limited availability through traditional pharmacies, prescription‑based insurance schemes, or who are seeking affordable generic alternatives. Always consult your doctor before starting, changing, or discontinuing any medication.