Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Eucrisa (crisaborole) and Clobetasol are both used to treat skin conditions, but they have some key differences. Eucrisa (crisaborole) is a PDE4 inhibitor used to treat mild-to-moderate eczema in people 3 months and older. It is only available as a brand medication and is applied as an ointment twice daily. Clobetasol, on the other hand, is a super potent corticosteroid used for more severe skin problems like psoriasis and eczema. It comes in various forms, including cream, shampoo, and spray, and is generally for short-term use due to potential serious side effects like skin thinning and high blood sugar. Clobetasol is available as a lower-cost generic medication and some formulations (solution and foam) can be used by children as young as 12 years old. While Eucrisa can be used safely in young children, Clobetasol is more potent and is used for more severe conditions but with more caution due to its stronger effects and potential risks.
Eucrisa (crisaborole)
Clobetasol
Eucrisa (crisaborole)
Clobetasol
Summary of Eucrisa vs. Clobex
Summary for PDE4 inhibitor
Prescription only
Eucrisa (crisaborole) is an ointment that's used to treat eczema for people 3 months and older. The medication is a phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibitor that works to help reduce skin inflammation and itching from eczema. The ointment is usually applied to the affected area(s) of skin twice a day. The most common side effect is burning or stinging on the skin where you apply the medication.
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.