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Compare Clobetasol vs. Minoxidil

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Clobetasol (Clobex, Olux) and minoxidil (Loniten) are both prescription medications, but they belong to different classes and treat different conditions. Clobetasol is a topical corticosteroid used to treat skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema by reducing inflammation and immune response. Minoxidil, on the other hand, is an oral vasodilator used to treat high blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels. Clobetasol is applied to the skin in various forms like cream and shampoo, while minoxidil is taken by mouth. Clobetasol is available as a generic medication and is used for short-term treatment due to potential side effects like skin thinning. Minoxidil is also available as a generic and is typically used when other blood pressure medications haven't worked, but it can cause side effects like swelling and a fast heart rate. Clobetasol should not be used on the face or groin, and minoxidil requires additional medications to manage its side effects.

  • Clobetasol
    Minoxidil
  • Clobetasol
    Minoxidil

  • Summary of Clobetasol vs. Minoxidil

    Summary for Corticosteroid
    Prescription only

    Clobetasol is a super potent (very strong) corticosteroid that's applied to the skin. It helps relieve skin inflammation and irritation from moderate-to-severe skin problems, like psoriasis. Clobetasol is available in many different formulations. This includes a cream, ointment, shampoo, topical solution, and foam. Most formulations are for people 12 years and older. But others, like the shampoo and lotion, are for adults only. Some side effects include burning, stinging, and irritation where it's applied. Clobetasol has both brand-name and generic options.

    Summary for Vasodilator
    Prescription only

    Minoxidil helps treat high blood pressure (hypertension) in adults and children by relaxing the blood vessels. It's typically used only when you have extremely high blood pressure, when you have symptoms, and when other medications haven't worked to control your blood pressure. Minoxidil tablets are only for these situations because the medication has side effects and risks, like swelling of the body, fast heart rate, and other heart problems that can be potentially serious.

  • Indications of Clobetasol vs. Minoxidil

    Indications for
    •Skin rashes and itchy skin - all topical forms except shampoo
    •Plaque psoriasis not on the scalp - all topical forms except shampoo
    •Moderate-to-severe scalp psoriasis - shampoo and certain foams only
    Indications for
    •High blood pressure

  • Pros and Cons of Clobetasol vs. Minoxidil

    Pros and Const for Corticosteroid
    Pros
    •One of the most potent (strongest) topical steroids
    •Applied directly to the affected area(s) of skin
    •Many formulations to choose from, such as ointment, cream, and spray
    •Works well for managing psoriasis symptoms
    Cons
    •For short-term use only (usually no more than 2 weeks at a time) to prevent skin thinning and other problems
    •Not safe to use on the face, armpits, or groin
    •Some formulations are only for adults (e.g., shampoo, lotion, spray)
    •Not known if safe to use while pregnant or breastfeeding
    Pros and Const for Vasodilator
    Pros
    •Can help control blood pressure when it's extremely high or when other medications haven't worked
    •Can take with or without food
    •Available as a lower-cost generic medication
    Cons
    •Not usually the first choice for treating high blood pressure
    •Usually must take additional medications to prevent side effects (a water pill and a beta-blocker)
    •Can cause unusual body hair growth, which can be unpleasant

  • Common Side Effects of Clobetasol vs. Minoxidil

    Common Side Effects for
    •Burning
    •Stinging
    •Skin irritation
    •Itching
    Common Side Effects for
    •Swelling in the body due to fluid buildup
    •Body hair growth that's more than usual
    •Faster heart rate

  • Warnings of Clobetasol vs. Minoxidil

    Common Side Effects for
    •More skin reactions with longer use and coverings
    •Changes in stress hormone levels
    •Topical steroid withdrawal
    •Higher risk of cataracts and glaucoma
    •Treat any skin infections appropriately
    •Flammable (clobetasol foam, solution, and spray only)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Fast heart rate and chest pain
    •Serious heart problems
    •Salt and fluid buildup in the body (risk for swelling and heart failure)
    •Harmful effects from lowering blood pressure too quickly

  • Prices with our coupons for Clobetasol vs. Minoxidil

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