Eczema treatment Dermovate Cream
What is Dermovate cream?
If you're dealing with persistent eczema flare-ups and conventional corticosteroid creams haven't yielded results, Dermovate might be recommended as an alternative.
Dermovate, a potent topical steroid, proves effective in addressing chronic skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis.
This cream contains the active ingredient clobetasol propionate, a topical corticosteroid that is directly applied to the affected area to reduce inflammation. Unlike over-the-counter options, Dermovate requires a prescription as it is stronger than other eczema creams. It is recommended when other steroid creams have proven ineffective.
What is Dermovate cream used to treat?
Dermovate cream is suitable for addressing skin inflammation, effectively diminishing swelling, redness, and itchiness in specific conditions such as:
psoriasis (a red, itchy rash with a silver, scaly appearance)
lupus erythematosus (an autoimmune skin disorder resulting in red patches, and heightened sensitivity to UV light)
lichen planus (itchy patches of skin that appear shiny and almost violet in colour)
Some forms of eczema
In certain individuals, these conditions prompt skin cells to release chemicals, resulting in swollen, itchy, or painful patches of skin. The severity of these patches can vary, ranging from localised areas to widespread coverage over the body.
Dermovate's active ingredient, clobetasol, instructs the skin cells to stop releasing the chemicals that are responsible for itching and swelling.
Who can and cannot use medicines containing Dermovate cream?
Dermovate, being a potent steroid, should only be used in conjunction with the guidance of a doctor. Refrain from using Dermovate:
if you are allergic to any of its ingredients, including clobetasol propionate
to address skin conditions in a child under 18 years old, unless specifically recommended by a dermatologist
for the treatment of acne, rosacea, perioral dermatitis, itching around the anus or genitals, non-inflamed itchy skin, plaque psoriasis, or infected skin unless simultaneous treatment with a separate medicine for the infection is underway
How to apply Dermovate cream?
Applying a thin layer to the affected area twice a day is recommended.
As the condition improves, the frequency of application can be reduced to once a day.
Eczema medicines
Frequently asked questions
Dermovate cream is a topical cream that is applied directly to the affected areas of the skin. It contains the active ingredient clobetasol propionate and is available in either 30mg or 100mg tubes.
Dermovate is also available as an ointment, with the ointment being preferable for dry or scaly skin due to its greasier texture.
As with many medications, individuals using Dermovate may encounter side effects. The most prevalent side effect, affecting up to 1 in 10 individuals, includes sensations of burning, irritation, or itching.
Less frequent side effects, experienced by up to 1 in 100 individuals, encompass:
thinning of the skin, potentially leading to stretch marks
increased prominence of clusters of blood vessels under the skin
Rare side effects, affecting up to 1 in 10,000 people with prolonged continuous use of Dermovate, may involve:
weight gain
facial rounding
wrinkles
dry skin
skin discoloration
increased body hair
hair loss, reduced hair growth, or damaged hair
In very rare instances, individuals using Dermovate may experience:
redness
acne
hives or a rash
infection
pustular psoriasis (raised bumps of pus under the skin for psoriasis sufferers)
reduction in cortisol levels in the blood
elevated sugar levels in blood or urine
high blood pressure
cataracts
glaucoma
osteoporosis
Always read the patient information leaflet for Dermovate cream before using it.