Corticosteroids (topical - very potent)

About very potent topical corticosteroids

Topical corticosteroids work by being absorbed into the skin cells and stopping these cells from producing chemicals which cause inflammation. This reduces the symptoms of swelling, itching and redness that are associated with inflammatory skin conditions.

Clobetasol propionate and diflucortolone valerate are classed as very potent topical corticosteroids and are used to treat symptoms which are severe or difficult to control.

Before using very potent topical corticosteroids

Before using very potent topical corticosteroids make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you have areas of infected skin.
• If you suffer from acne rosacea.
• If you suffer from perioral dermatitis (skin rash around the mouth).
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.

How to use very potent topical corticosteroids

• Carefully follow the instructions given to you by your doctor. Your doctor will tell you how long to use your preparation for.
• Cream:
• Apply thinly using the specified number of fingertip units. A fingertip unit is the amount of topical steroid that is squeezed out from a standard tube along an adults fingertip.
• If your skin problem does not improve in two to four weeks tell your doctor.
• You should not use this cream in children under one year of age.
• Foam:
• Treatment should not exceed 2 weeks and amounts greater than 50 g/week should not be used.
• Use only on the scalp.
• Shake the canister well.
• Turn the canister upside down and dispense a small amount directly onto the scalp taking care to avoid contact with eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Move the hair away from the affected area and gently massage into the scalp, until the foam disappears and is absorbed.
• Repeat if necessary, to treat the entire affected area.
• Discard any unused dispensed medication.
• Scalp application:
• You should not use this scalp application in children under one year of age.
• Unscrew the cap on the bottle and place the nozzle on the part of the scalp that needs treating.
• Gently squeeze the bottle until the area to be treated is completely covered with a thin layer of liquid.
• Shampoo:
• This shampoo is for use in adults. It must only be used in children under 18 years of age if it has been recommended by a consultant specialising in skin conditions.
• Apply the shampoo directly to your dry scalp taking care to cover and massage the affected areas. Leave the shampoo to work for 15 minutes, then wash your hair using your usual shampoo or just rinse and dry your hair.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Wash your hands after handling corticosteroids.
• Do not apply this preparation near the eyes, and unless your doctor tells you otherwise you must not apply to the face or genital area.

Can very potent topical corticosteroids cause problems

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

How to store very potent topical corticosteroids

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines