title: The role of clobetasol propionate emollient 0.05% in the treatment of patients with dry, scaly, corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses.
abstract: The use of topical corticosteroids has significantly enhanced the treatment of patients with dermatoses such as psoriasis and eczema. In particular, group I high-potency corticosteroids such as clobetasol propionate have proved safe and effective for limited-course treatment of inflammatory and pruritic manifestations of moderate-to-severe corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses. At the same time, much effort has gone into devising more effective strategies for addressing the dry skin conditions associated with various dermatologic disorders. An emollient added to a steroid, although not itself an active ingredient, can help restore the normal moisturizing process of the skin; this may be particularly important in soothing the discomfort of the dry skin conditions often encountered in moderate-to-severe dermatoses. In addition, the degree of epidermal hydration can affect the penetration of steroids into the skin. Therefore, successful outcomes in the treatment of patients with corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses may involve more than use of an effective topical steroid. This article examines a currently available cream formulation of 0.05% clobetasol propionate containing moisturizers--emollients, dimethicone, and a humectant--that may contribute to improved moisture content in treated skin. A review of recent studies shows that clobetasol propionate emollient cream is well tolerated and effective in courses of up to 4 weeks for the treatment of patients with psoriasis or atopic dermatitis.
authors.affiliation: Mount Sinai Medical Center, New York, New York, USA.
authors.forename: M L
authors.initials: ML
authors.lastname: Gordon
mesh_terms: D000287:Administration, Topical; D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D002990:Clobetasol / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000031:analogs & derivatives* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D005938:Glucocorticoids; D006801:Humans; D009824:Ointments; D012871:Skin Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000473:pathology
chemical_list: D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents; D005938:Glucocorticoids; D009824:Ointments; D002990:Clobetasol