Observations on the systemic effect of topical clobetasol propionate (Dermovate).

J A Carruthers, P J August, R C Staughton

Index: Br. Med. J. 4(5990) , 203-4, (1975)

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Abstract

Topical application of clobetasol propionate in a strength of 0-05% in cream or ointment (Dermovate) suppressed the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis in both normal people and patients with diseased skin. In normal people the 9 am serum cortisol level was suppressed when between 45 and 90 g was applied weekly. Insulin stress test results in patients with diseased skin showed an abnormally small response after long-term application of similar amounts. We conclude that long-term administration should be restricted to less than 50 g a week.