Temovate (clobetasol propionate) is a high-potency topical corticosteroid indicated for the short-term treatment of moderate to severe corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses. It exerts potent anti-inflammatory, antipruritic, and vasoconstrictive actions, making it a cornerstone in managing inflammatory skin conditions that are unresponsive to lower-potency corticosteroids. This fluorinated corticosteroid is formulated for targeted application, offering rapid symptomatic relief and reduction of lesional severity. Its efficacy profile positions it as a critical therapeutic option under expert dermatological supervision.

Features

• Contains 0.05% clobetasol propionate as the active pharmaceutical ingredient
• Available in multiple formulations: cream, ointment, scalp solution, and foam
• High-potency (Class I) corticosteroid with significant vasoconstrictive properties
• Formulated for enhanced cutaneous penetration and localized effect
• Typically supplied in 15g, 30g, or 60g tubes or containers
• Suitable for intermittent or limited-duration therapy under medical guidance

Benefits

• Provides rapid and potent anti-inflammatory action for severe dermatological conditions
• Effectively reduces erythema, edema, pruritus, and plaque thickness in psoriatic lesions
• Facilitates quicker resolution of flare-ups compared to mid-potency corticosteroids
• Minimizes systemic absorption when used appropriately on limited body surface area
• Offers formulation versatility (ointment for dry/scaly lesions, cream for moist/weeping areas)
• Supports short-term control of refractory dermatoses, potentially improving quality of life during exacerbations

Common use

Temovate is primarily prescribed for the short-term management of inflammatory and pruritic manifestations of corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses. Its most frequent applications include moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, particularly in areas with thicker skin such as elbows, knees, and palms. It is also utilized for severe atopic dermatitis, lichen planus, discoid lupus erythematosus, and other recalcitrant dermatoses that have not responded adequately to less potent corticosteroids. The medication is typically reserved for adults and should be applied to limited body surface areas (generally not exceeding 10%) to minimize potential systemic absorption. Treatment duration is usually limited to 2-4 weeks, with careful monitoring for cutaneous atrophy and other local adverse effects.

Dosage and direction

Apply a thin film of Temovate to the affected area twice daily, gently rubbing it into the skin. The amount needed depends on the severity and extent of the condition, but as a general guideline, fingertip units (FTUs) may be used for measurement—one FTU (approximately 0.5g) covers an area roughly twice the size of an adult palm. For scalp application using the solution formulation, apply a few drops to the affected area twice daily and massage gently. Treatment should not exceed 50g per week for cream/ointment or 50mL/week for scalp solution. Duration of use should be limited to 2 consecutive weeks, and the total treatment course should not exceed 4 weeks overall. Occlusive dressings may be used for enhanced penetration in particularly resistant plaques but only under direct medical supervision due to increased absorption risk.

Precautions

Temovate is a high-potency corticosteroid requiring careful clinical oversight. Patients should be advised to use the medication only as prescribed and for the shortest duration necessary to achieve therapeutic effect. Avoid application to the face, groin, axillae, or other intertriginous areas unless specifically directed by a physician. Do not use on rosacea, perioral dermatitis, or acne vulgaris. Monitor for signs of skin atrophy, including transparency, shininess, telangiectasias, or striae, particularly with prolonged use. Patients should discontinue treatment and consult their physician if irritation develops. Use with extreme caution in pediatric patients due to increased susceptibility to hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis suppression and Cushing’s syndrome. Pregnancy Category C: should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

Contraindications

Temovate is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to clobetasol propionate or any component of the formulation. It should not be used in the treatment of cutaneous infections caused by fungi, bacteria, or viruses (unless appropriate antimicrobial therapy is concurrently administered). Contraindicated for ophthalmic use, including application on eyelids or periocular areas. Should not be used in patients with rosacea, perioral dermatitis, or acne vulgaris. Not recommended for use under occlusive dressings in children or in patients with compromised skin integrity (e.g., ulcers, open wounds). Avoid use in patients with circulating dermatological conditions where increased systemic absorption might occur.

Possible side effect

The most common side effects are localized to the application site and may include burning, stinging, itching, irritation, dryness, folliculitis, hypertrichosis, acneiform eruptions, and hypopigmentation. With prolonged use or application to sensitive areas, more significant effects may occur, including skin atrophy, striae, telangiectasias, miliaria, and contact dermatitis. Systemic absorption may lead to reversible HPA axis suppression, manifestations of Cushing’s syndrome, hyperglycemia, and glucosuria in some patients. Rare reports include allergic contact dermatitis and paradoxical worsening of psoriasis. Pediatric patients may be more susceptible to systemic toxicity, including intracranial hypertension.

Drug interaction

Formal drug interaction studies have not been conducted with topical clobetasol propionate. However, concomitant use with other topical corticosteroids may increase the risk of systemic effects. Using Temovate with other potentially hepatotoxic drugs warrants monitoring. There are no known interactions with systemic medications, but caution is advised when using with drugs that inhibit CYP3A4 enzymes, which metabolize corticosteroids. No significant interactions with topical antimicrobials or antifungals have been reported when used concurrently.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, apply it as soon as remembered unless it is almost time for the next scheduled application. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed application. Maintain the regular twice-daily schedule without exceeding the prescribed frequency. If multiple doses are missed, contact a healthcare provider for guidance on resuming treatment. Consistent application is important for therapeutic efficacy, but occasional missed doses are unlikely to significantly impact treatment outcomes.

Overdose

Topical overdose may result in significant systemic absorption leading to reversible HPA axis suppression, Cushing’s syndrome, and hyperglycemia. Symptoms may include weight gain, edema, hypertension, hypokalemia, and muscle weakness. Application of excessive amounts topically may also cause severe local skin reactions including intensified irritation, atrophy, or striae. In case of suspected overdose, discontinue medication immediately and seek medical attention. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic; no specific antidote exists. Electrolyte imbalance should be corrected if present. HPA axis function typically recovers after discontinuation of therapy.

Storage

Store Temovate at controlled room temperature between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Excursions permitted between 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Keep the tube or container tightly closed when not in use. Protect from excessive heat and direct sunlight. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use after the expiration date printed on the packaging. Discard any medication that has changed color, consistency, or shows signs of contamination.

Disclaimer

This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Temovate is a prescription medication that should be used only under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Individual results may vary, and not all patients will experience the same benefits or side effects. The safety and efficacy of Temovate in pediatric patients have not been established, and use in children should be approached with extreme caution. Patients should consult their healthcare provider for diagnosis and appropriate treatment options. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read in this product information.

Reviews

Clinical studies demonstrate that Temovate produces complete clearance or excellent improvement in approximately 85-90% of patients with plaque psoriasis within 2-4 weeks of treatment. Dermatologists consistently rate Temovate as highly effective for short-term management of severe inflammatory dermatoses, though many emphasize the importance of careful patient selection and monitoring. Patient satisfaction surveys indicate significant improvement in symptoms such as itching, scaling, and redness, with many reporting relief within the first week of treatment. However, reviews frequently mention the need for careful adherence to application guidelines to avoid side effects. The scalp formulation receives particular praise for its efficacy in treating psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis in hair-bearing areas. Long-term follow-up studies confirm that when used appropriately as intermittent therapy, Temovate maintains efficacy without developing tolerance.