Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Betamethasone (Diprolene) and clocortolone (Cloderm) are both corticosteroids used to treat inflammatory skin conditions, but they have some key differences. Betamethasone is a potent medication available in various formulations like creams, ointments, gels, lotions, sprays, and foams, and is generally used for up to 2 weeks. Clocortolone, on the other hand, is a medium-strength steroid available only as a cream and needs to be applied three times a day. Betamethasone is stronger and can treat more severe symptoms, while clocortolone is better tolerated with fewer side effects but may not be effective for severe conditions. Both medications should not be used on sensitive areas like the face, and long-term use can lead to hormone changes and skin thinning.
Betamethasone
Clocortolone (Cloderm)
Betamethasone
Clocortolone (Cloderm)
Summary of Diprolene vs. Cloderm
Summary for Corticosteroid
Prescription only
Betamethasone is a potent (strong) medication used to relieve the inflammation (redness, swelling, warmth, pain) and itching from different skin conditions. This medication is available as many different formulations, but most can only be used for up to 2 weeks at a time.
Summary for Corticosteroid
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 of Diprolene vs. Cloderm
Indications for
•Inflammation and itchy skin conditions
•Mild-to-moderate plaque psoriasis in people 18 years or older - Sernivo brand only
Indications for
•Inflammatory skin conditions
Pros and Cons of Diprolene vs. Cloderm
Pros and Const for Corticosteroid
Pros
•Available as different formulations (creams, ointments, gels, lotions, sprays, and foams)
•Certain forms can be used in both children and adults.
•Most available as a lower-cost generic medication
Cons
•Can affect hormone levels
•Can't be applied to sensitive areas like the face, groin, or armpit
•Most products can't be used for longer than 2 weeks at a time.
Pros and Const for Corticosteroid
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