How does Dermol Scalp Application (Clobetasol Propionate) work:

Dermol Scalp Application is used in the treatment of psoriasis and recalcitrant eczemas of the scalp. Clobetasol propionate is a very active topical corticosteroid which is of particular value when used in short courses for conditions which do not respond satisfactorily to less active steroids.

Clobetasol Propionate, the active ingredient, is used for reducing inflammation. Inflammation of the skin happens due to irritation of the skin, and is caused by the release of various substances that are important in the immune system. These substances cause blood vessels to widen, resulting in the irritated area becoming red, swollen, itchy and painful. When clobetasol is applied to the skin it works by acting inside the skin cells to decrease the release of these inflammatory substances. This reduces swelling, redness and itch. Clobetasol is a very potent corticosteroid that is applied to the skin to treat severe inflammatory skin disorders, such as eczema and psoriasis, that have not responded to milder steroids.

Dosage & Administration:

Apply sparingly to the scalp night and morning until improvement occurs. As with other highly-active topical steroid preparations, therapy should be discontinued when control is achieved. Repeated short courses of Dermol Scalp Application may be used to control exacerbations. If continuous steroid treatment is necessary, a less potent preparation should be used.

Side Effects:

• Thinning of the skin
• Changes in skin pigmentation

Precautions:

Avoid application to the face as this area is susceptible to atrophic changes particularly after prolonged treatment. Care must be taken to ensure the preparation does not enter the eyes as glaucoma or cataract may result.

Do not use near a naked flame. Because of the risk of suppression of the HPA axis, courses of treatment with very potent topical steroids should not exceed 15g per week. Routine steroid precautions must be observed if the patient is stressed. Long-term continuous therapy should be avoided, particularly in infants and children, in whom adrenal suppression occurs readily.

Children up to four years should not be treated with topical steroids for longer than 3 weeks without medical review. It should be noted that the infants napkin may act as an occlusive dressing, and increase absorption.