Clobetasol Teva

Clobetasol propionate – Super-potent topical corticosteroid

Prescription (Rx) Topical Corticosteroid D07AD01
Active Ingredient
Clobetasol propionate
Available Forms
Cream, Shampoo
Strengths
0.05% (500 µg/g)
Known Brands
Clobex, Clobetasol Teva
Medically reviewed | Last reviewed: | Evidence level: 1A
Clobetasol Teva contains clobetasol propionate, a super-potent topical corticosteroid used to treat severe inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis that have not responded to milder corticosteroid treatments. It works by reducing redness, swelling, itching, and irritation of the skin. Available as a 0.05% cream and shampoo, it requires a prescription and should be used for short periods under medical supervision.
📅 Published:
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Written and reviewed by iMedic Medical Editorial Team | Specialists in dermatology and clinical pharmacology

Quick facts about Clobetasol Teva

Active Ingredient
Clobetasol propionate
Super-potent corticosteroid
Drug Class
Topical Corticosteroid
Class I (Super-potent)
ATC Code
D07AD01
Dermatological corticosteroid
Common Uses
Eczema, Psoriasis
Severe dermatitis
Available Forms
Cream, Shampoo
0.05% strength
Prescription Status
Rx Only
Prescription required

Key takeaways about Clobetasol Teva

  • Super-potent corticosteroid: Clobetasol propionate is the most potent topical corticosteroid available (Class I/Group IV), reserved for severe inflammatory skin conditions unresponsive to milder treatments
  • Maximum 4 weeks continuous use: Do not use for more than 4 consecutive weeks without medical supervision due to the risk of skin thinning, stretch marks, and systemic absorption
  • Avoid sensitive areas: Use on the face, groin, and axillae should be limited to a few days only, as these areas are especially prone to corticosteroid side effects
  • Not for children under 1 year: Children are more susceptible to side effects and generally require shorter treatment courses with milder corticosteroids
  • Drug interactions exist: CYP3A4 inhibitors such as ritonavir and itraconazole can increase systemic absorption and the risk of side effects

What Is Clobetasol Teva and What Is It Used For?

Clobetasol Teva is a prescription-only topical corticosteroid containing clobetasol propionate at a concentration of 0.05%. It is classified as a super-potent (Class I) corticosteroid and is used to treat severe inflammatory skin conditions including eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis that have not responded to less potent corticosteroid preparations.

Clobetasol propionate belongs to a group of medicines called corticosteroids (sometimes referred to as steroids). When applied to the skin, it exerts potent anti-inflammatory, antipruritic (anti-itch), and vasoconstrictive effects. The drug works by binding to intracellular glucocorticoid receptors, which triggers a cascade of molecular events that suppress the production of inflammatory mediators such as prostaglandins, leukotrienes, and various cytokines. This mechanism effectively reduces the redness, swelling, heat, and discomfort that characterize inflammatory skin conditions.

As a Class I topical corticosteroid – the most potent category in the classification system used internationally – clobetasol propionate is typically reserved for conditions where milder preparations have proven ineffective. The World Health Organization (WHO) includes clobetasol propionate on its Model List of Essential Medicines, recognizing its importance in the treatment of severe dermatological conditions. Clobetasol Teva is manufactured by Teva Pharmaceutical Industries, one of the world’s largest generic pharmaceutical companies, and is widely available across Europe and internationally.

The primary conditions treated with Clobetasol Teva include severe plaque psoriasis, particularly thick plaques on the elbows and knees; chronic eczema (atopic dermatitis) that has not responded to moderate-potency corticosteroids; and severe contact or allergic dermatitis. The cream formulation is suitable for moist or weeping skin conditions, while the shampoo formulation is specifically designed for scalp conditions such as scalp psoriasis.

Important to know:

Clobetasol propionate is the active ingredient in several brand-name products worldwide, including Clobex, Temovate, and Dermovate. The formulation of Clobetasol Teva may contain different inactive ingredients (excipients) compared to other brands, so if you are switching between products, discuss this with your pharmacist or doctor, particularly if you have known allergies or sensitivities.

How does Clobetasol Teva work?

When applied topically, clobetasol propionate penetrates the outer layer of the skin (stratum corneum) and enters the viable epidermal and dermal cells. Once inside the cell, it binds to the glucocorticoid receptor (GR), a member of the nuclear receptor superfamily. This drug-receptor complex then translocates to the cell nucleus, where it modulates gene expression in two key ways:

  • Transactivation: Upregulation of anti-inflammatory proteins such as lipocortin-1 (annexin A1), which inhibits the enzyme phospholipase A2, thereby blocking the production of arachidonic acid and its downstream inflammatory metabolites
  • Transrepression: Downregulation of pro-inflammatory genes by interfering with the activity of transcription factors such as nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) and activator protein-1 (AP-1), reducing the synthesis of cytokines, chemokines, and adhesion molecules

The net result is a powerful suppression of the immune and inflammatory response at the application site. The vasoconstrictive effect reduces blood flow to the area, which further diminishes redness and swelling. These combined actions make clobetasol propionate highly effective for short-term management of severe inflammatory dermatoses.

What Should You Know Before Using Clobetasol Teva?

Before using Clobetasol Teva, you should be aware of several contraindications, warnings, and precautions. This medication is not suitable for all skin conditions and has important restrictions regarding duration of use, application areas, and patient populations.

Contraindications

Do not use Clobetasol Teva in any of the following situations:

  • Allergy to clobetasol propionate or any of the other ingredients in the product (see the ingredients section for a full list of excipients)
  • Children under 1 year of age: The safety and efficacy of clobetasol propionate has not been established in infants, and the risk-benefit ratio does not support its use in this age group
  • Acne vulgaris: Potent corticosteroids can worsen acne and may trigger steroid acne
  • Rosacea: Severe redness of the face (with or without visible blood vessels, papules, or pustules) will be aggravated by potent topical corticosteroids
  • Perioral dermatitis: Uneven red rash around the mouth that is characteristically worsened by topical corticosteroid use
  • Pruritus without inflammation: Itchy skin in the anal or genital region that does not have an inflammatory component should not be treated with this medication
  • Untreated skin infections: Bacterial, viral (including herpes simplex and varicella), or fungal skin infections must be treated appropriately before applying a potent corticosteroid, as the immunosuppressive effect can allow infections to spread

Warnings and Precautions

Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before using Clobetasol Teva if any of the following apply to you:

  • Previous allergic reaction to any corticosteroid: Cross-reactivity between topical corticosteroids is possible, and your doctor may need to perform patch testing before prescribing Clobetasol Teva
  • Use under occlusive dressings: Airtight dressings significantly increase the absorption of clobetasol propionate through the skin. Only use occlusive dressings if specifically instructed by your doctor, and be vigilant for signs of systemic absorption
  • Large body surface area, broken skin, or skin folds: Application to extensive areas, damaged skin, or intertriginous areas (where skin touches skin, such as armpits or groin) greatly increases the risk of systemic effects, including suppression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis
  • Psoriasis: Your doctor may need to monitor you more closely, as potent corticosteroids can trigger rebound flares or, rarely, pustular psoriasis upon withdrawal
  • Eczema around leg ulcers: The use of topical corticosteroids near venous ulcers increases the risk of contact sensitization and local infection
  • Thin skin areas: The face, eyelids, and genital area have thinner skin that is more susceptible to atrophy. Application to these areas should be limited to a few days
  • Near or on the eyes: Repeated application near the eyes carries a risk of developing cataracts or glaucoma if the cream enters the eye
  • Bone pain: If you experience new or worsening musculoskeletal symptoms during treatment, particularly with long-term use, consult your doctor as osteoporosis may be a concern with significant systemic absorption
  • Concurrent use of other corticosteroids or immunosuppressants: Combining Clobetasol Teva with oral corticosteroids or immunosuppressive medications (for example, after organ transplantation or for autoimmune diseases) increases the risk of serious infections and systemic corticosteroid effects
Warning – Systemic effects:

If you use high doses over large body areas for prolonged periods, or under occlusive dressings, clobetasol propionate can be absorbed in sufficient quantities to produce systemic effects. Signs of systemic absorption include weight gain with altered fat distribution (particularly in the face, abdomen, and between the shoulders), thinning and fragile skin, changes in skin color, increased body hair growth, and muscle weakness. These symptoms may indicate Cushing’s syndrome. If you notice any of these signs, contact your doctor for a gradual reduction plan. Do not stop treatment abruptly as this can cause adrenal insufficiency.

Consult your doctor if your skin condition does not improve within 2–4 weeks of starting treatment. If a skin infection develops during use, your doctor may need to prescribe antimicrobial treatment and potentially discontinue the corticosteroid.

Visual disturbances:

Contact your doctor if you experience blurred vision or other visual disturbances during treatment, as these may indicate serious eye complications such as central serous chorioretinopathy, cataracts, or glaucoma.

Use in Children

Children are more susceptible to developing both local and systemic side effects from topical corticosteroids because of their higher body surface area to weight ratio. Prolonged continuous treatment should be avoided, particularly in infants and children under 12 years of age. Clobetasol Teva must not be used on children under 1 year of age. In older children, treatment should typically be limited to a few days under close medical supervision, and the cream should not be applied under airtight dressings or nappies (which can act as occlusive dressings). A child of approximately 4 years of age requires about one-third of the adult dose.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

If you are pregnant, think you may be pregnant, or are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor or pharmacist before using Clobetasol Teva. The safety of topical clobetasol propionate during pregnancy has not been fully established in human studies, and your doctor will carefully weigh the potential benefits against the possible risks to the fetus.

If you use Clobetasol Teva while breastfeeding, never apply it to the breast area to prevent accidental ingestion by the infant. Use the smallest effective amount for the shortest possible duration, and discuss all risks with your healthcare provider.

How Does Clobetasol Teva Interact with Other Drugs?

Clobetasol Teva has clinically significant interactions primarily with CYP3A4 inhibitors such as ritonavir and itraconazole, which can increase systemic absorption of the corticosteroid and elevate the risk of side effects including Cushing’s syndrome and adrenal suppression.

Although topical application results in lower systemic exposure than oral corticosteroids, clinically meaningful drug interactions can still occur, particularly with prolonged use, application over large body areas, or use under occlusive dressings. The key pharmacokinetic pathway involves the cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) enzyme system, which metabolizes clobetasol propionate in the liver.

Major Interactions

The following interactions are considered clinically significant and require careful monitoring or avoidance:

Major Drug Interactions
Interacting Drug Drug Class Effect Clinical Advice
Ritonavir HIV protease inhibitor (potent CYP3A4 inhibitor) Inhibits the metabolism of clobetasol propionate, significantly increasing systemic levels and the risk of Cushing’s syndrome and adrenal suppression Avoid concurrent use if possible. If essential, use the lowest dose for the shortest duration and monitor for systemic corticosteroid effects
Itraconazole Azole antifungal (potent CYP3A4 inhibitor) Reduces hepatic clearance of absorbed clobetasol propionate, increasing systemic exposure Use with caution. Consider alternative antifungal agents or use a less potent topical corticosteroid
Cobicistat Pharmacokinetic enhancer (CYP3A4 inhibitor) Similar mechanism to ritonavir; inhibits CYP3A4 and increases systemic corticosteroid levels Exercise caution. Monitor for signs of adrenal suppression

Minor Interactions and Considerations

While the following interactions are generally less clinically significant, they warrant awareness:

  • Other topical preparations: If using an emollient (moisturizer) alongside Clobetasol Teva, apply the corticosteroid first and wait several minutes before applying the emollient, or vice versa. Simultaneous application can dilute the corticosteroid or alter its absorption
  • Oral corticosteroids (prednisone, prednisolone, dexamethasone): Concurrent use of systemic and potent topical corticosteroids increases the cumulative corticosteroid burden and the risk of HPA axis suppression
  • Immunosuppressive agents (ciclosporin, tacrolimus, methotrexate): Additive immunosuppressive effects may increase infection risk
  • Topical retinoids (tretinoin, adapalene): These increase skin permeability and may enhance corticosteroid absorption; use with caution in combination
  • Ketoconazole and other moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors: May moderately increase systemic levels of clobetasol propionate with extensive topical use

Always inform your doctor or pharmacist about all medications you are taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter products, and herbal supplements. This allows them to check for potential interactions and adjust your treatment plan accordingly.

What Is the Correct Dosage of Clobetasol Teva?

The standard dosage for adults is a thin layer of Clobetasol Teva cream applied once or twice daily to the affected area for a maximum of 4 weeks. The fingertip unit (FTU) method should be used to measure the correct amount, and treatment should not be continued beyond 4 weeks without medical review.

Always use Clobetasol Teva exactly as your doctor or pharmacist has instructed. If you are unsure about any aspect of your treatment, consult your healthcare provider. The cream formulation is intended for application to the skin only (topical use) and should never be taken by mouth or applied to the eyes.

Adults

Apply a thin layer of Clobetasol Teva cream to the affected area once or twice daily. The frequency of application may be gradually reduced as the skin condition improves, or your doctor may switch you to a milder corticosteroid for maintenance treatment. Treatment should not exceed 4 continuous weeks.

The Fingertip Unit (FTU) Guide:

A fingertip unit (FTU) is the amount of cream squeezed from the tube along the length of an adult’s index fingertip (from the tip to the first crease). This practical measurement helps ensure you apply an appropriate amount. The following guide can help you estimate the right amount:

Fingertip Unit (FTU) Dosage Guide for Adults
Body Area FTUs Required Notes
Both hands 2 FTUs Front and back of both hands
One foot 2 FTUs Including sole
One arm 3 FTUs Elbow to wrist, including hand
One leg 6 FTUs Knee to ankle, including foot
Front and back of torso 14 FTUs Chest, abdomen, and entire back

Children

Children under 1 year: Clobetasol Teva must not be used.

Children over 1 year: Use the smallest effective amount for the shortest possible time. A child of approximately 4 years of age typically requires about one-third of the adult dosage. Treatment should generally be limited to a few days unless your doctor specifically advises a longer course. Do not apply the cream under airtight dressings or nappies, which can increase absorption. Your doctor may want to see your child weekly while they are using the cream.

Elderly Patients

Elderly patients should be treated with the smallest effective amount for the shortest possible duration. Older skin tends to be thinner and more fragile, which increases the risk of local side effects such as skin atrophy and bruising. The risk of systemic absorption may also be higher. Your doctor will carefully assess the benefit-risk ratio and may choose a less potent corticosteroid when appropriate.

Special Situations

Psoriasis on Elbows or Knees

For thick psoriatic plaques on the elbows or knees, your doctor may recommend applying the cream under an occlusive (airtight) dressing at night to help the cream penetrate the thick skin. This is typically done for a short initial period, after which you should apply the cream without a dressing as usual.

Frequently Recurring Eczema

If your eczema flares up frequently, your doctor may suggest a maintenance regimen once the condition is under control. This may involve applying a thin layer of Clobetasol Teva once daily or twice weekly (without occlusive dressings) to areas that are prone to flare-ups. This proactive approach should be combined with regular daily use of an emollient (moisturizer) to maintain skin barrier function.

Facial Application

Only apply Clobetasol Teva to the face if your doctor has specifically instructed you to do so. Facial skin is significantly thinner than skin on the body and is much more prone to atrophy and telangiectasia (visible blood vessels). Treatment on the face should be limited to a few days at most, and the cream should not be applied under dressings or bandages. Avoid getting the cream in your eyes; if accidental contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with plenty of water.

Missed Dose

If you forget to apply the cream, apply it as soon as you remember. However, if it is nearly time for your next application, skip the missed dose and apply it at the next scheduled time. Do not apply a double amount to make up for a missed dose.

Overdose

If you accidentally apply significantly more cream than recommended on a few occasions, it is unlikely to cause harm. However, if a very large amount is applied regularly or if the cream is accidentally swallowed (particularly by a child), contact your doctor or emergency services immediately. Rinse the mouth with plenty of water if the cream has been ingested.

Chronic overuse of clobetasol propionate can lead to systemic corticosteroid effects including Cushing’s syndrome, adrenal suppression, hyperglycemia, and osteoporosis. If you believe you have been using too much cream for too long, speak with your doctor about gradually reducing the frequency of application.

Do not stop abruptly:

If you have been using Clobetasol Teva regularly, do not stop using it suddenly without consulting your doctor. Abrupt discontinuation after prolonged use can cause a rebound flare of your skin condition or, in severe cases, adrenal insufficiency. Your doctor will advise a gradual tapering schedule.

What Are the Side Effects of Clobetasol Teva?

Like all medicines, Clobetasol Teva can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. The most common side effects are skin itching and burning or pain at the application site. More serious effects such as skin thinning, stretch marks, and systemic corticosteroid effects can occur with prolonged or improper use.

Stop using Clobetasol Teva and inform your doctor as soon as possible if you notice that your skin condition is worsening, or if the treated skin becomes swollen, red, develops a rash, hives, burning sensation, or contact eczema. These may be signs of a local hypersensitivity reaction, an infection, or a need for alternative treatment.

Common

May affect up to 1 in 10 users
  • Skin itching (pruritus) at the application site
  • Local burning sensation or pain in the skin

Uncommon

May affect up to 1 in 100 users
  • Skin thinning (atrophy) which may lead to stretch marks (striae)
  • Visible superficial blood vessels under the skin (telangiectasia)
  • Blurred vision

Rare

May affect up to 1 in 1,000 users
  • Skin infection at the application site

Very Rare

May affect up to 1 in 10,000 users
  • Weight gain and Cushing’s syndrome (facial rounding, fat accumulation, muscle weakness)
  • Severe skin thinning, wrinkling, and dryness
  • Changes in skin pigmentation (color changes)
  • Excessive hair growth (hypertrichosis) or hair loss
  • Allergic contact dermatitis at the application site
  • Worsening of the underlying skin condition
  • Pustular psoriasis (pus-filled bumps under the skin, during or after treatment)
  • Acne at the application site

Systemic Side Effects (Very Rare)

With prolonged use, application to large body areas, or use under occlusive dressings, enough clobetasol propionate may be absorbed through the skin to cause systemic effects. These are typically identified through blood tests or medical examination:

  • Decreased cortisol levels in the blood (adrenal suppression)
  • Increased blood glucose levels (hyperglycemia) and glucose in the urine (glycosuria)
  • High blood pressure (hypertension)
  • Clouding of the lens in the eye (cataracts)
  • Increased pressure in the eye (glaucoma)
  • Weakening of the bones through gradual mineral loss (osteoporosis)

Additional Side Effects in Children

Children may experience the following additional effects when treated with potent topical corticosteroids:

  • Delayed weight gain
  • Slowed growth (growth retardation)

Side Effects with Unknown Frequency

  • Central serous chorioretinopathy (CSCR) – a visual disturbance caused by detachment of the retina at the back of the eye
Reporting side effects:

If you experience any side effects, including any not listed above, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. You can also report suspected adverse reactions to your national pharmacovigilance authority (for example, the FDA MedWatch program in the United States or the Yellow Card Scheme in the United Kingdom). Reporting helps improve the ongoing safety monitoring of medicines.

How Should You Store Clobetasol Teva?

Store Clobetasol Teva at a temperature below 25°C (77°F) and keep it out of the sight and reach of children. Discard the cream 3 months after first opening the tube, even if there is product remaining.

Proper storage of Clobetasol Teva is essential to ensure the medication remains effective and safe throughout its shelf life. Follow these guidelines:

  • Temperature: Store at or below 25°C (77°F). Do not freeze the cream or expose it to extreme heat
  • Children: Keep the medication out of the sight and reach of children at all times
  • Expiry date: Do not use the cream after the expiry date printed on the carton and tube (indicated by “EXP”). The expiry date refers to the last day of that month
  • After opening: Discard the cream 3 months after the tube has been first opened, regardless of the printed expiry date
  • Visual inspection: Do not use the cream if you notice visible signs of deterioration, such as notable changes in color or consistency. If in doubt, consult your pharmacist
  • Disposal: Do not dispose of medications via household waste or down the drain. Return unused or expired medication to your local pharmacy for safe disposal in accordance with environmental protection guidelines

What Does Clobetasol Teva Contain?

The active ingredient in Clobetasol Teva cream is clobetasol propionate at a concentration of 0.5 mg per gram (equivalent to 0.05%). The cream also contains several inactive ingredients (excipients) including cetostearyl alcohol, propylene glycol, and chlorocresol.

Active Ingredient

Each 1 g of Clobetasol Teva 0.05% cream contains 0.5 mg of clobetasol propionate (500 micrograms per gram). Clobetasol propionate is a synthetic fluorinated corticosteroid with potent glucocorticoid activity and minimal mineralocorticoid activity.

Inactive Ingredients (Excipients)

The cream base contains the following excipients:

  • Cetostearyl alcohol – an emulsifying and emollient agent (may cause local skin reactions such as contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals)
  • Glycerol monostearate – an emulsifying agent
  • Arlacel 165 (glycerol monostearate and macrogol 100 stearate) – an emulsifying blend
  • White wax – a stiffening and emollient agent
  • Propylene glycol (475 mg per gram) – a humectant and solvent (may cause skin irritation in some individuals)
  • Chlorocresol – a preservative (may cause allergic reactions)
  • Sodium citrate – a buffering agent
  • Citric acid monohydrate – a pH adjusting agent
  • Purified water
Important excipient information:

Clobetasol Teva 0.05% cream contains cetostearyl alcohol, which can cause local skin reactions (such as contact dermatitis), and chlorocresol, which may cause allergic reactions. It also contains propylene glycol (475 mg per gram), which may cause skin irritation. If you have known sensitivities to any of these substances, discuss alternatives with your doctor or pharmacist.

Product Appearance and Packaging

Clobetasol Teva cream is a white or almost white cream supplied in an aluminum tube with a white plastic screw cap. Available pack sizes are 30 g and 100 g tubes. Not all pack sizes may be marketed in every country.

Manufacturer

Clobetasol Teva is manufactured by Tiofarma B.V. in the Netherlands on behalf of Teva B.V. (Haarlem, Netherlands). Teva Pharmaceutical Industries is a global leader in generic and specialty medicines, providing affordable access to essential medications worldwide.

Frequently Asked Questions About Clobetasol Teva

Clobetasol Teva is a super-potent topical corticosteroid used to treat severe inflammatory skin conditions including eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis that have not responded to milder corticosteroid products. It reduces redness, itching, swelling, and irritation of the skin. It is available as a 0.05% cream and shampoo formulation, and requires a prescription from a doctor.

Clobetasol Teva should not be used continuously for more than 4 weeks without consulting your doctor. Due to its super-potent classification, prolonged use can lead to skin thinning (atrophy), stretch marks (striae), and systemic absorption that may cause Cushing’s syndrome and adrenal suppression. Your doctor may prescribe a milder corticosteroid for longer-term maintenance treatment if your condition requires ongoing therapy.

Clobetasol Teva should only be applied to the face if specifically instructed by your doctor, and treatment should be limited to a few days at most. Facial skin is considerably thinner and more sensitive than skin on other parts of the body, making it much more susceptible to side effects such as skin thinning (atrophy), visible blood vessels (telangiectasia), and perioral dermatitis. Never apply it under dressings or bandages on the face, and take care to avoid getting the cream in your eyes.

You should consult your doctor before using Clobetasol Teva if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. The safety of topical clobetasol propionate during pregnancy has not been fully established, and your doctor will carefully weigh the benefits against the potential risks. If used during breastfeeding, never apply the cream to the breast area to prevent accidental ingestion by the infant. Use the smallest effective amount for the shortest duration possible.

The most common side effects of Clobetasol Teva include itching (pruritus) and a burning sensation or pain at the application site, affecting up to 1 in 10 users. Less common side effects (affecting up to 1 in 100 users) include skin thinning and visible superficial blood vessels. With prolonged or inappropriate use, more serious effects can develop, including stretch marks, skin color changes, and systemic effects such as Cushing’s syndrome. Always use the smallest effective amount for the shortest necessary duration to minimize the risk of side effects.

Clobetasol Teva must not be used on children under 1 year of age. Children over 1 year should only use it for short treatment courses under close medical supervision, as children are more susceptible to both local and systemic side effects due to their higher body surface area to weight ratio. A child of approximately 4 years of age requires about one-third of the adult dose. Your doctor may want to review your child weekly while they are using the cream.

A fingertip unit (FTU) is the amount of cream squeezed from the tube along the length of an adult’s index fingertip (from the tip of the finger to the first crease). This practical measurement helps ensure you apply the right amount of cream. As a guide: two FTUs covers both hands or one foot, three FTUs covers one arm, six FTUs covers one leg, and fourteen FTUs covers the front and back of the torso. These are approximate guidelines – you may need slightly more or less depending on the exact area being treated.

References

This article is based on peer-reviewed medical literature, official regulatory documents, and international clinical guidelines. All information has been reviewed for accuracy by the iMedic Medical Editorial Team.

  1. World Health Organization (WHO). Model List of Essential Medicines – 23rd List (2023). Geneva: WHO; 2023. Available from: who.int
  2. European Medicines Agency (EMA). Summary of Product Characteristics – Clobetasol propionate 0.05% cream. Amsterdam: EMA; 2024.
  3. British Association of Dermatologists (BAD). Guidelines for the Management of Atopic Eczema in Adults and Children. Br J Dermatol. 2024.
  4. American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). Guidelines of Care for the Management of Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2024;90(2):S1-S40.
  5. Hengge UR, Ruzicka T, Schwartz RA, Cork MJ. Adverse effects of topical glucocorticosteroids. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2006;54(1):1-15.
  6. Coondoo A, Phiske M, Verma S, Lahiri K. Side-effects of topical steroids: A long overdue revisit. Indian Dermatol Online J. 2014;5(4):416-425.
  7. British National Formulary (BNF). Clobetasol propionate. NICE; 2025. Available from: bnf.nice.org.uk
  8. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Clobetasol Propionate Cream USP, 0.05% Prescribing Information. Silver Spring, MD: FDA.
  9. Rathi SK, D’Souza P. Rational and ethical use of topical corticosteroids based on safety and efficacy. Indian J Dermatol. 2012;57(4):251-259.
  10. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). Eczema – atopic: Topical corticosteroids. Clinical Knowledge Summaries. 2024.

About the Medical Editorial Team

This article has been written and reviewed by the iMedic Medical Editorial Team, a multidisciplinary group of licensed healthcare professionals with expertise in dermatology, clinical pharmacology, and evidence-based medicine.

Medical Reviewers

Board-certified dermatologists and clinical pharmacologists with extensive experience in the management of inflammatory skin conditions and topical therapies.

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All content follows the GRADE evidence framework and is cross-referenced against WHO, EMA, FDA, BAD, and AAD guidelines for accuracy and clinical relevance.

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