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Cloderm vs. Clobetasol

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

Clocortolone

(Cloderm)

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Clobetasol

 

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Summary for Cloderm

Prescription only

Clocortolone (Cloderm) is a topical corticosteroid (or steroid) that's used to treat many types of skin problems that cause itchiness and inflammation (swelling and redness). This medication comes as a cream that's applied to the skin three times per day. Side effects aren't common but can include a burning sensation, dry skin, and skin irritation where the cream is applied.

Indications for Cloderm

  • Inflammatory skin conditions

Pros and Cons for Cloderm

Pros

  • A cream that's easy to apply
  • Treats many different skin conditions
  • Safe to use short term for children
  • Few side effects

Cons

  • Need to apply three times daily, which is more often than similar steroid medications
  • Risk of skin thinning with long-term use
  • Might not work well for severe skin conditions

Common Side Effects for Cloderm

  • Side effects aren't common. See Other Side Effects.

Warnings for Cloderm

  • Altered stress hormone levels

Summary for Clobetasol

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.

Indications for Clobetasol

  • 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

Pros and Cons for Clobetasol

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

Common Side Effects for Clobetasol

  • Burning
  • Stinging
  • Skin irritation
  • Itching

Warnings for Clobetasol

  • 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)

Prices with our coupons for Cloderm vs. Clobetasol

Price Card Drug Icon
Clocortolone Pivalate1 tube / 45g of 0.1%
$88.73$348.37
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Clobetasol1 tube / 60g of 0.05%
$16.01$124.61
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