Clobex (clobetasol) is a brand-name drug that’s prescribed for certain types of dermatoses and psoriasis in adults. Clobex comes as a topical lotion, a topical spray, and a shampoo that’s typically used once to twice daily.
Clobex belongs to a drug class called topical corticosteroids. Clobex is available in a generic version.
Keep reading for specific information about the dosage of Clobex, including its strengths and how to use the medication. For a comprehensive look at Clobex, see this article.
Note: This article describes typical dosages for Clobex provided by the drug’s manufacturer. When using Clobex, always follow the dosage prescribed by your doctor.
Below is information about Clobex’s forms, strengths, and dosages.
Clobex forms
Clobex comes in three forms:
- a topical lotion that you apply to your skin
- a topical spray that you apply to your skin
- a shampoo that you apply to your scalp
Clobex strength
Clobex is available in one strength: 0.05%
Typical dosages
The following information describes dosages that are commonly used or recommended in adults. However, be sure to take the dosage your doctor prescribes for you. Your doctor will determine the best dosage to fit your needs.
Dosage for plaque psoriasis
Doctors may prescribe Clobex to treat plaque psoriasis.
If your doctor prescribes Clobex spray for your plaque psoriasis, your starting dose will likely be to spray the affected area twice a day. Typically, you’ll apply this for 2 to 4 weeks. Because Clobex is a steroid medication, it is not recommended for use longer than 4 weeks at a time.
For more information about your specific dosage, and regimen, talk with your doctor.
Dosage for scalp psoriasis
Clobex shampoo is approved to help treat scalp psoriasis. In this case, the recommended starting dose of Clobex is one application to the affected areas of the dry scalp once a day. You will use this until your scalp improves, but not for longer than 4 weeks at a time.
Talk with your doctor if you have questions about your dosage.
Dosage for skin itchiness or swelling associated with dermatoses
Clobex lotion is approved to help treat skin itchiness or swelling due to dermatoses. In this case, the recommended dosage of Clobex is to apply it to the affected areas of the skin twice a day. You will typically use this for 2 to 4 weeks. Because Clobex is a steroid medication, it is not recommended for use longer than 4 weeks at a time.
If you have questions about your dosage, talk with your doctor.
How to use Clobex
Clobex use varies depending on which form of the drug you use to treat your condition. See below for information on how to use each form of Clobex.
Administration for Clobex shampoo
To use Clobex shampoo, apply a thin layer to the affected areas of the dry scalp (do not pre-wet scalp) and leave on for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, lather the shampoo and rinse thoroughly. If you desire, you may use a nonmedicated shampoo after Clobex has been rinsed away.
You should not use more than 50 grams (g) of Clobex shampoo each week. This amount is equal to 50 milliliters (mL) or 1.75 fluid ounces (oz).
Administration for Clobex lotion
To use Clobex lotion, apply a small amount topically to the affected areas of your skin, rubbing it in gently and completely.
It’s recommended that no more than 50 g (50 mL or 1.75 fluid oz) of Clobex lotion be used per week.
Administration for Clobex spray
To use Clobex spray, spray a small amount topically to the affected areas of your skin, rubbing it in gently and completely.
It’s recommended that you do not use more than the following amounts of Clobex spray:
- 26 sprays per application
- 52 sprays per day
- 50 g (59 mL or 2 fluid oz) per week
If you have questions about how to use Clobex, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.
Long-term treatment
Clobex is used short term for some types of psoriasis and skin conditions associated with dermatoses. Doctors typically prescribe Clobex for 2 to 4 weeks of treatment. They may prescribe less time if your condition clears up.
Talk with your doctor if you have questions about how long you can expect to take Clobex.
It’s important that you don’t use more Clobex than your doctor prescribes. For some medications, taking more than the recommended amount may lead to harmful effects or overdose.
Effects of an overdose
Overdose effects of Clobex can include:
- Cushing’s syndrome
- high blood sugar
- hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis suppression (your adrenal glands are not working properly), which can include:
- fever
- chills
- headache
- fatigue
- abdominal cramping
- diarrhea
If you take more than the recommended amount of Clobex
Call your doctor right away if you believe you’ve taken too much Clobex. Another option is to call America’s Poison Centers at 800-222-1222 or use its online tool. If you have severe symptoms, immediately call 911 or your local emergency number, or go to the nearest emergency room.
Disclaimer: Medical News Today has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.