Why is Temovate prescribed?
Temovate and Cormax relieve the itching and inflammation of moderate to severe skin conditions. The scalp application is used for short-term treatment of scalp conditions; the cream, ointment, emollient cream, and gel are used for short-term treatment of skin conditions on the body. The products contain a steroid medication for external use only.
Most important fact about Temovate
When you use Temovate, you inevitably absorb some of the medication through your skin and into the bloodstream. Too much absorption can lead to unwanted side effects elsewhere in the body. To keep this problem to a minimum, avoid using large amounts of Temovate over large areas, and do not cover it with airtight dressings such as plastic wrap or adhesive bandages unless specifically told to by your doctor.
How should you use Temovate?
Use Temovate exactly as directed. Do not use it more often or for a longer time than ordered. Remember to avoid covering or bandaging the affected area.
Temovate is for use only on the skin. Be careful to keep it out of your eyes. If the scalp application gets into your eyes, flush your eyes with a lot of water.
A thin layer of cream, ointment, or gel should be gently rubbed into the affected area.
Do not use the scalp application near an open flame.
--If you miss a dose...
Apply it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule.
--Storage instructions...
Store at room temperature. Do not refrigerate the creams, gel, or scalp application.
What side effects may occur?
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue using Temovate. This medication is generally well tolerated when used for 2 weeks. However, some side effects have been reported at the affected area.
CREAMS, OINTMENT, GEL
• Side effects are infrequent but may include:
Burning, cracking/fissuring, irritation, itching, numbness of fingers, patches, reddened skin, shrinking of the skin, stinging
SCALP APPLICATION
• More common side effects may include:
Burning, stinging
These additional side effects have been known to result from use of topical steroids and may be particularly apt to occur with airtight dressings or higher strength steroids: Acne, allergic skin inflammation, dryness, excessive hair growth, infection, inflammation around the mouth, loss of skin color, prickly heat, skin softening, streaking.
Why should Temovate not be prescribed?
All forms of Temovate should be avoided if you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to clobetasol propionate, other corticosteroids such as Valisone and Topicort, or any of their ingredients. Do not use the scalp application if you have a scalp infection.
Special warnings about Temovate
Temovate is a strong corticosteroid that can be absorbed into the bloodstream. It has caused Cushing's syndrome (a disorder characterized by a moon-shaped face, emotional disturbances, high blood pressure, weight gain, and, in women, abnormal growth of facial and body hair) and changes in blood sugar.
This medication should not be used for any condition other than the one for which it was prescribed.
If your skin becomes irritated, stop using the medication and call your doctor.
Temovate should not be used by children under 12 years of age.
Treatment should not last for more than 2 weeks.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Temovate
No interactions have been reported.
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
Although Temovate is applied to the skin, there is no way of knowing how much medication is absorbed into the bloodstream. Strong corticosteroids have caused birth defects in animals. Temovate, a strong corticosteroid, should be used only if the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks to the unborn baby; limit use to small amounts, on a limited area, for a short period of time. It is not known whether topical steroids are absorbed in sufficient amounts to appear in breast milk. If Temovate is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to stop breastfeeding until your treatment with the medication is finished.
Recommended dosage
ADULTS AND CHILDREN 12 YEARS AND OLDER
Apply the medication to the affected area 2 times a day, once in the morning and once at night. Treatment should not last for more than 2 consecutive weeks, and the affected area should not be covered with a bandage. No more than 50 grams or 50 milliliters per week (approximately one large tube or bottle) should be used.
Overdosage
When absorbed into the bloodstream over a prolonged period, Temovate can cause disorders such as Cushing's syndrome. If you suspect an overdose of Temovate, seek medical attention immediately.