Temovate: Potent Topical Corticosteroid for Rapid Inflammatory Relief
Temovate (clobetasol propionate) is a high-potency topical corticosteroid formulation indicated for the short-term treatment of moderate to severe inflammatory and pruritic manifestations of corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses. As a Class I super-potent steroid, it offers one of the most robust anti-inflammatory, antipruritic, and vasoconstrictive actions available in topical dermatological therapy. Its efficacy is well-documented across numerous dermatologic conditions, providing rapid symptomatic control where mid-potency agents prove insufficient. Proper application and adherence to treatment duration guidelines are critical to maximizing therapeutic benefit while minimizing the risk of adverse effects associated with potent corticosteroids.
Features
- Contains clobetasol propionate 0.05% as the active pharmaceutical ingredient
- Available in multiple formulations: cream, ointment, scalp solution, and foam
- Demonstrates high vasoconstrictive activity, correlating with potent anti-inflammatory effects
- Formulated for enhanced cutaneous penetration and targeted delivery
- Typically supplied in 15g, 30g, or 45g tubes (cream/ointment) or 50mL bottles (scalp solution)
- Stable chemical composition with predictable pharmacokinetic profile
Benefits
- Provides rapid relief from inflammation, erythema, and pruritus within days of initiation
- Effective for recalcitrant dermatoses that have not responded to lower-potency corticosteroids
- Reduces lichenification, scaling, and plaque elevation in psoriatic lesions
- Helps restore skin barrier function and improve quality of life during flare-ups
- Convenient once- or twice-daily application regimen for most indications
- Multiple formulation options allow for tailored treatment based on lesion characteristics and body site
Common use
Temovate is primarily prescribed for the short-term management of severe inflammatory skin conditions including plaque psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, lichen planus, discoid lupus erythematosus, and severe contact dermatitis. It is particularly valuable for managing thickened, hyperkeratotic lesions on non-facial, non-intertriginous areas such as elbows, knees, and palms. Dermatologists may also utilize it for specialized conditions like lichen sclerosus, granuloma annulare, and keloids. Its use is generally restricted to periods not exceeding two consecutive weeks due to potency considerations, with many clinicians recommending treatment breaks between courses.
Dosage and direction
Apply a thin film of Temovate cream or ointment to the affected area once or twice daily, depending on severity and physician recommendation. For the scalp solution, apply a few drops to the affected area twice daily, gently massaging until absorbed. The total dosage should not exceed 50g per week for cream/ointment formulations. Treatment duration is typically limited to 2 weeks, with reassessment required for continued therapy. Occlusive dressings may be used for severe, resistant lesions but significantly increase systemic absorption and adverse effect risk. Always wash hands after application unless treating hands.
Precautions
Use Temovate with caution in patients with liver impairment, as altered metabolism may affect drug clearance. Avoid application to the face, groin, axillae, or other intertriginous areas due to increased absorption and higher risk of atrophy and striae. Monitor for signs of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis suppression during prolonged use or extensive application. Discontinue if irritation develops. Not recommended for use under diapers in children. Use with particular caution in pediatric patients due to higher surface area to body mass ratio and increased systemic absorption risk.
Contraindications
Temovate is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to clobetasol propionate or any component of the formulation. Should not be used for rosacea, perioral dermatitis, or acne vulgaris. Contraindicated in viral skin infections (herpes simplex, varicella), fungal infections, and parasitic skin infections. Avoid use in patients with cutaneous tuberculosis. Not recommended during pregnancy unless potential benefit justifies potential risk to fetus. Not for ophthalmic use.
Possible side effect
Common local reactions include burning, itching, irritation, dryness, folliculitis, hypertrichosis, and acneiform eruptions. With prolonged use or inappropriate application: skin atrophy, striae, telangiectasia, hypopigmentation, and contact dermatitis may occur. Systemic absorption may lead to reversible HPA axis suppression, manifestations of Cushing’s syndrome, hyperglycemia, and glucosuria. Rare reports include pustular psoriasis following discontinuation. Pediatric patients may be more susceptible to systemic toxicity.
Drug interaction
No formal drug interaction studies have been conducted with topical clobetasol. However, concomitant use with other corticosteroids may increase systemic effects. Use with other potentially hepatotoxic drugs may require monitoring. Caution with drugs that inhibit CYP3A4 enzymes (ketoconazole, itraconazole) may potentially increase clobetasol levels. No significant interactions with topical agents have been documented, though applying multiple topical products simultaneously may affect absorption.
Missed dose
Apply the missed dose as soon as remembered, unless it is almost time for the next scheduled application. Do not apply extra medication to make up for a missed dose. Maintain regular application schedule without doubling doses. Irregular application may reduce therapeutic efficacy but is unlikely to cause significant withdrawal effects with topical corticosteroids.
Overdose
Topical overdose may produce significant systemic absorption leading to corticosteroid side effects including Cushing’s syndrome, hyperglycemia, and HPA axis suppression. Acute overdose is unlikely with topical application but could occur with excessive application over large body surface areas, especially under occlusion. Treatment involves discontinuation of therapy and supportive care. There is no specific antidote; symptomatic management and monitoring of adrenal function may be necessary in severe cases.
Storage
Store at controlled room temperature (20-25°C or 68-77°F). Keep tube tightly closed when not in use. Protect from freezing and excessive heat. Do not store in bathroom where moisture may affect stability. Keep all medications out of reach of children and pets. Do not use after expiration date printed on packaging. Discard any medication that has changed color or consistency.
Disclaimer
This information is 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. Always follow your physician’s instructions regarding dosage and application. Report any adverse effects to your healthcare provider promptly. The full prescribing information contains additional details about risks and benefits.
Reviews
Clinical studies demonstrate Temovate produces complete or excellent improvement in approximately 80-85% of patients with plaque psoriasis within 2 weeks. Dermatologists consistently rate it as highly effective for severe inflammatory conditions, though emphasize the importance of appropriate patient selection and duration limits. Patients report significant improvement in itching, redness, and scaling, with many noting results within 3-5 days of initiation. The scalp formulation is particularly praised for its efficacy in difficult-to-treat psoriatic lesions. Most reviews caution about the need to follow application instructions precisely to avoid side effects.