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Vanos vs. Cloderm

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

Key takeaways

Fluocinonide (Vanos) and clocortolone (Cloderm) are both topical corticosteroids used to treat skin inflammation and irritation, but they have some key differences. Fluocinonide is available in two strengths (0.05% and 0.1%) and comes in various forms like cream, ointment, gel, and topical solution, while clocortolone is only available as a cream. Fluocinonide is a stronger steroid compared to clocortolone, which is a medium-strength steroid. This means fluocinonide might be more effective for severe symptoms, but it also has more restrictions, such as not being suitable for use on the face, underarms, or groin, especially in its higher strength. Clocortolone, on the other hand, is easier to apply but needs to be used more frequently (three times a day) and might not be strong enough for severe conditions. Both medications should be used for the shortest time possible to avoid side effects like skin thinning and hormonal changes.

Fluocinonide

 

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Clocortolone

(Cloderm)

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Summary for Vanos

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 Vanos

Pros and Cons for Vanos

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 Vanos

  • Burning feeling where fluocinonide is applied

Warnings for Vanos

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

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

Prices with our coupons for Vanos vs. Cloderm

Price Card Drug Icon
Fluocinonide1 bottle / 60ml of 0.05%
$24.22$96.82
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Price Card Drug Icon
Clocortolone Pivalate1 tube / 45g of 0.1%
$88.73$348.37
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