Tenovate: Potent Topical Corticosteroid for Rapid Inflammatory Relief
| Product dosage: 15g | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Package (num) | Per tube | Price | Buy |
| 4 | $10.54 | $42.17 (0%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 5 | $10.04 | $52.71 $50.20 (5%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 6 | $9.87 | $63.25 $59.24 (6%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 7 | $9.47 | $73.80 $66.26 (10%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 8 | $9.04 | $84.34 $72.29 (14%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 9 | $8.48 | $94.88 $76.31 (20%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 10 | $8.23
Best per tube | $105.42 $82.33 (22%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
Tenovate (clobetasol propionate 0.05%) is a high-potency topical corticosteroid 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 a targeted mechanism of action, exerting anti-inflammatory, antipruritic, and vasoconstrictive effects. Its efficacy is well-established in dermatological practice for conditions where less potent corticosteroids have proven inadequate. Proper application and adherence to treatment duration are critical to maximizing therapeutic outcomes while minimizing potential adverse effects. This product is available in various formulations, including cream, ointment, lotion, and foam, to suit different lesion types and body areas.
Features
- Contains clobetasol propionate 0.05% as the active pharmaceutical ingredient
- Available in multiple formulations: cream, ointment, solution, lotion, and foam
- Classified as a Group I (super-high potency) topical corticosteroid
- Rapid onset of anti-inflammatory and antipruritic action
- Formulated for enhanced cutaneous penetration and localized effect
- Paraben-free and hypoallergenic base in most formulations
- Suitable for intermittent or short-term pulse therapy under supervision
Benefits
- Provides rapid relief from inflammation, redness, swelling, and itching associated with steroid-responsive dermatoses
- High efficacy rate in resolving stubborn or severe dermatological conditions that are unresponsive to lower-potency steroids
- Flexible formulation options allow for tailored treatment based on lesion type, body site, and patient preference
- Enables shorter treatment courses due to superior potency, potentially improving patient compliance
- Minimizes systemic absorption when used appropriately, focusing therapeutic action at the site of application
- Helps restore skin barrier function and improves quality of life by controlling debilitating symptoms
Common use
Tenovate is primarily prescribed for the short-term treatment of various inflammatory skin conditions that are responsive to corticosteroids. Its most frequent applications include moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, particularly on non-facial and non-intertriginous areas where thicker skin can tolerate higher-potency steroids. It is also commonly used for lichen planus, especially the hypertrophic and erosive variants, and for severe cases of atopic dermatitis and eczema that have not responded adequately to mid-potency corticosteroids. Other indications include discoid lupus erythematosus, alopecia areata (under specific protocols), and chronic hand dermatitis. Dermatologists may also employ it off-label for certain recalcitrant conditions like granuloma annulare or keloids, though evidence for these uses varies. The choice of formulation is crucial: ointments are typically preferred for dry, scaly lesions; creams for moist or weeping areas; solutions and foams for hairy regions; and lotions for larger body surfaces.
Dosage and direction
Apply a thin film of Tenovate to the affected area(s) twice daily, typically in the morning and evening, unless otherwise directed by a healthcare provider. The amount needed varies depending on the lesion size and body area; as a general guideline, the fingertip unit (FTU) method is recommended: one FTU (the amount extruded from a tube with a 5mm diameter nozzle from the distal skin crease to the fingertip) covers approximately two handprint areas (300-400 cm²). For adults, the maximum weekly dosage should not exceed 50 grams of cream/ointment or 50 mL of solution/lotion. Treatment duration is strictly limited—typically 2 consecutive weeks for most indications—with no more than 4 weeks of continuous use. For scalp applications, apply solution or foam to dry scalp, parting hair to ensure direct contact with lesions. Occlusive dressings may be used in severe, localized psoriasis under medical supervision but significantly increase absorption and adverse effect risk. Always wash hands after application unless treating hands.
Precautions
Use Tenovate with extreme caution due to its high potency. Avoid application on the face, groin, axillae, or other intertriginous areas unless specifically prescribed and monitored, as these regions demonstrate enhanced percutaneous absorption. Do not use under occlusive dressings unless directed by a physician, as this markedly increases systemic absorption and the risk of local and systemic adverse effects. Discontinue if irritation or sensitization develops. Monitor for signs of skin atrophy, telangiectasia, striae, or hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis suppression, especially with prolonged use, large surface area coverage, or use in children. Use with particular caution in pediatric patients, as they have a higher surface area to body mass ratio and are more susceptible to systemic effects. Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes. Do not use on rosacea, acne, or perioral dermatitis. Patients should be advised that this is not for maintenance therapy and should not be used as a cosmetic product.
Contraindications
Tenovate is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to clobetasol propionate, other corticosteroids, or any component of the formulation. It should not be used on viral skin infections (e.g., herpes simplex, varicella), fungal infections, or bacterial skin infections unless concomitant appropriate antimicrobial therapy is administered. Avoid use in tuberculous, syphilitic, or vaccinal lesions of the skin. Contraindicated in patients with untreated parasitic infestations or fungal infections at the application site. Should not be used on ulcerated skin or open wounds. Absolute contraindication exists for ophthalmic use. Not recommended during pregnancy unless potential benefit justifies potential risk to the fetus, particularly in the first trimester. Should generally be avoided in nursing mothers unless absolutely necessary, and not applied to breasts prior to nursing.
Possible side effect
The most common side effects are local and include burning, stinging, itching, irritation, and dryness at the application site, particularly during initial treatment. With prolonged use or inappropriate application, more significant local adverse effects may occur: skin atrophy (thinning), striae (stretch marks), telangiectasia (dilated blood vessels), hypopigmentation or hyperpigmentation, folliculitis, acneiform eruptions, and miliaria. Secondary infections may develop due to suppression of the skin’s immune response. Systemic absorption can lead to reversible HPA axis suppression manifesting as reduced cortisol levels, hyperglycemia, glucosuria, Cushing’s syndrome, and in children, growth retardation. Rare but serious side effects include generalized allergic contact dermatitis, perioral dermatitis, and exacerbation of underlying skin conditions. Withdrawal reactions including rebound flare of dermatitis may occur upon abrupt discontinuation after prolonged use.
Drug interaction
Formal topical drug interaction studies have not been conducted with Tenovate. However, concomitant use with other topical products may increase irritation or alter absorption. Using other topical corticosteroids concurrently may result in additive systemic effects and increased risk of adverse reactions. Occlusive dressings or high-hydration formulations may significantly enhance systemic absorption of clobetasol. There are no known interactions with systemic medications, but physicians should be aware that patients on concomitant drugs that suppress the immune system (e.g., cyclosporine, tacrolimus) may have increased risk of infection. Patients taking drugs that affect cortisol metabolism or sensitivity should be monitored for enhanced systemic effects.
Missed dose
If a dose is missed, apply it as soon as remembered, unless it is almost time for the next scheduled application. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not apply a double dose to compensate for a missed application. Consistent application is important for therapeutic efficacy, but occasional missed doses are unlikely to significantly impact treatment outcomes given the medication’s mechanism of action. Patients should not extend the treatment duration beyond what was prescribed to compensate for missed doses.
Overdose
Topical overdose typically manifests as exaggerated local effects (severe skin atrophy, striae, telangiectasia) or systemic corticosteroid effects due to significant percutaneous absorption. Symptoms of systemic overdose may include moon face, central obesity, hypertension, hyperglycemia, adrenal suppression, and in severe cases, adrenal crisis. Acute topical overdose requires discontinuation of the medication and symptomatic management. There is no specific antidote. In cases of accidental ingestion, seek immediate medical attention—gastric lavage or activated charcoal may be considered if ingestion was recent. Systemic supportive measures may be necessary if significant absorption has occurred. Chronic overdose from prolonged use requires gradual withdrawal to avoid acute adrenal insufficiency.
Storage
Store Tenovate at controlled room temperature, 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), with excursions permitted between 15°C and 30°C (59°F and 86°F). Keep the container tightly closed when not in use to protect from moisture and contamination. Do not freeze. Keep out of direct sunlight and excessive heat. Store upright to prevent leakage. Keep all medications out of reach of children and pets. Do not use after the expiration date printed on the packaging. Properly discard any unused medication after the treatment course is completed—do not save for future use unless specifically advised by a healthcare provider.
Disclaimer
This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Tenovate is a prescription medication and should be used only under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. The prescribing physician should be consulted for diagnosis and appropriate treatment recommendations. Individual results may vary. Not all uses, precautions, or side effects are listed here. Full prescribing information should be reviewed before initiation of therapy. The patient should disclose their complete medical history and current medications to their healthcare provider before using this product.
Reviews
Clinical studies and dermatological practice consistently demonstrate Tenovate’s efficacy in managing severe inflammatory skin conditions. In randomized controlled trials for plaque psoriasis, approximately 70-80% of patients achieved significant improvement or clearance of lesions within 2 weeks of treatment. Dermatologists frequently report that Tenovate serves as an effective option for patients who have failed therapy with mid-potency steroids, with many noting its rapid onset of action and reliable anti-inflammatory effects. Patient reviews often mention substantial relief from itching and inflammation within days of starting treatment, though some report concerns about skin thinning with prolonged use. The various formulations receive positive feedback for addressing different application needs, though some patients find the ointment formulation too greasy. Overall, when used appropriately for indicated conditions and limited durations, Tenovate maintains a favorable risk-benefit profile in dermatological therapeutics.
