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Fluocinonide vs. Clobetasol

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

Key takeaways

Fluocinonide (Vanos) and clobetasol (Clobex, Olux, Tovet, Impeklo, Impoyz) are both topical corticosteroids used to treat skin inflammation and irritation, such as psoriasis and eczema. However, they differ in potency and specific uses. Fluocinonide is available in two strengths: 0.05% and 0.1%, with the latter being very strong but not as potent as clobetasol. Clobetasol is considered a super potent steroid and is used for more severe skin conditions. Fluocinonide comes in forms like cream, ointment, gel, and solution, while clobetasol is available as a cream, shampoo, lotion, and spray. Both medications are for short-term use, but clobetasol has a broader range of formulations, including a shampoo for scalp psoriasis. Common side effects of fluocinonide include headaches and burning at the application site, while clobetasol can cause burning, stinging, and skin irritation. Clobetasol also has a risk of more serious side effects like skin thinning and high blood sugar if used improperly. Both medications should not be used on the face, armpits, or groin, and you should follow your healthcare provider's instructions closely to avoid complications.

Fluocinonide

 

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Clobetasol

 

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Summary for Fluocinonide

Prescription only

Fluocinonide is a strong topical steroid that's applied on the skin. It treats rashes and skin irritation in adults and children. The medication comes as a cream, ointment, gel, and topical solution. All topical forms come as generics, but the cream is also available under the brand name Vanos. You apply fluocinonide to the affected skin one to four times a day, depending on the formulation. This medication isn't meant for long-term use because of potential side effects like skin thinning and changes in skin color.

Indications for Fluocinonide

Pros and Cons for Fluocinonide

Pros

  • Treats a wide range of skin problems that are itchy or inflamed
  • Has few side effects when used for short periods of time
  • Many formulation options available (cream, gel, ointment, or topical solution)

Cons

  • Might have to apply it up to 4 times a day (depends on the strength and your symptoms)
  • Might not be the best option for treating sensitive areas like the face, underarms, or groin
  • Not meant for long-term use

Common Side Effects for Fluocinonide

  • Burning feeling where fluocinonide is applied

Warnings for Fluocinonide

  • Change in stress hormone levels
  • Skin reactions
  • Worsening of skin infections
  • Allergic skin reactions

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 Fluocinonide vs. Clobetasol

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Fluocinonide1 bottle / 60ml of 0.05%
$24.22$99.72
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Clobetasol1 tube / 60g of 0.05%
$16.01$124.71
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