Dermasol-S

Indications

Dermasol-S is indicated for adults, elderly, and children over 1 year for the following dermatoses:

• Psoriasis (excluding widespread plaque psoriasis)
• Recalcitrant dermatoses
• Lichen planus
• Discoid lupus erythematosus
• Other skin conditions unresponsive to less potent steroids

Composition

Dermasol-S contains Clobetasol Propionate BP 0.5 mg (0.05% w/w) in various formulations:

• Cream
• Ointment
• Scalp Application
• Shampoo
• Lotion
• Spray

Pharmacology

Clobetasol Propionate is a potent topical corticosteroid with anti-inflammatory, antipruritic, and vasoconstrictive properties. It works by inhibiting late-phase allergic reactions, decreasing mast cell density, and reducing cytokine production.

Dosage & Administration

• Cream/Ointment: Apply a thin layer to affected areas twice daily. Treatment should not exceed two consecutive weeks or 50 gm/week. For children, limit treatment to five days and review weekly.
• Spray/Scalp Solution: Apply once or twice daily to affected areas. Do not exceed 50 ml weekly. Use for brief periods only.
• Shampoo: Apply to dry scalp once daily. Leave for 15 minutes before rinsing. Limit treatment to four weeks, not exceeding 50 g per week.

Administration

Apply creams to moist or weeping surfaces and ointments to dry, lichenified, or scaly lesions.

Interaction

Clobetasol Propionate metabolism can be inhibited by CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ritonavir, itraconazole), leading to increased systemic exposure.

Contraindications

Do not use in cases of:

• Rosacea, acne vulgaris, perioral dermatitis
• Primary cutaneous viral infections
• Hypersensitivity to Clobetasol Propionate
• Fungal or bacterial skin infections
• Children under one year of age

Side Effects

Possible side effects include systemic absorption leading to hypercorticism, local atrophic changes, pigmentation changes, hypertrichosis, and rare hypersensitivity reactions.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Limited data on use during pregnancy. Use only if benefits outweigh risks. It is unknown if Clobetasol Propionate is excreted in human milk.

Precautions & Warnings

Avoid long-term continuous use, especially in children, due to the risk of adrenal suppression. Avoid use on the face or eyelids to prevent atrophic changes and glaucoma or cataract development. Careful supervision is needed when treating psoriasis to avoid systemic toxicity.

Special Populations

Avoid long-term continuous use in infants and children under 12 years due to higher susceptibility to adrenal suppression and atrophic changes.

Overdose Effects

Acute overdosage is unlikely. Chronic misuse may result in hypercortisolism; discontinue use if symptoms occur.

Therapeutic Class

Other topical corticosteroids

Storage Conditions

Store below 30°C, protected from light and moisture. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children.