Halobetasol vs. clobetasol - how do they compare?

Official answer

by Drugs.com

Halobetasol (brand name examples: Bryhalyi, Lexette, Ultravate) and clobetasol (brand name examples: Clobex, Embeline, Olux), are both classified as super-high potency and high potency topical corticosteroid (“steroid”) creams used on the skin. They are both FDA-approved to treat plaque psoriasis and skin conditions that are responsive to topical corticosteroids, such as dermatitis and eczema (atopic dermatitis).

Topical corticosteroids work by preventing the release of substances in the body that cause inflammation and pain, redness, and itching. They help to relieve crusting, dryness and scaling often seen with plaque psoriasis. They can be used for more serious skin allergies, insect bites or rashes, if needed. They can be absorbed through the skin and lead to dangerous side effects if not used as directed.

How do halobetasol and clobetasol come?

Halobetasol

Halobetasol is available as a topical cream, lotion, ointment or aerosol foam. Generic options are available for both the cream and ointment products; however, the lotion and aerosol foam do not have cost-saving generics available yet. Halobetasol is approved to treat plaque psoriasis in adults as well as corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses. It was first approved by the FDA in 1990.

Brand names of halobetasol include:

Halobetasol is also available in a combination lotion product with tazarotene (Duobrii), approved for use in plaque psoriasis in adults.

Clobetasol

Compared to halobetasol, clobetasol is available in more types of formulations. It can be found as a topical cream, ointment, lotion, solution, gel, spray, shampoo, or topical foam. All of these dosage forms are available as generic options. Like halobetasol, clobetasol is also approved to treat plaque psoriasis in adults as well as corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses. It was first approved in 1985.

Brand names of clobetasol include:

Where can I apply a topical corticosteroid?

Most products come in special dosage forms that are specific to the area being treated; for example, products used for scalp psoriasis would come in topical shampoos or solutions.

The best areas to apply certain topical corticosteroids:

Only use topical steroids on your face, groin, or axillae (armpit) if directed by your doctor. Avoid using bandages or occlusive dressings unless directed by your doctor to do so. Side effects are more likely to occur if the area is covered with an occlusive dressing (wrap) or with extensive or prolonged use of high strength medicines.

How do the side effects compare between halobetasol and clobetasol?

Potent topical steroids like halobetasol and clobetasol can be absorbed through the skin and cause serious side effects, so it’s important to follow your doctor’s order exactly.

If you experience any irritation or side effect with the use of a topical corticosteroid, contact your doctor immediately.

Because halobetasol and clobetasol fall in the same therapeutic category and potency, side effects are expected to be similar and include:

Side effects are more likely to occur if the area is covered with an occlusive dressing (wrap or bandage) or with extensive or prolonged use of high-strength medicines. Only use this medicine on your face, groin, or axillae (armpit) if directed by your doctor.

This is not a complete list of side effects or warnings. Review the full halobetasol or clobetasol warnings or side effects and discuss this information with your doctor.

How do drug interactions compare between halobetasol and clobetasol?

Most drug interaction with topical corticosteroids are considered minor. However, you should always have your doctor and pharmacist review any medications you take for drug interactions, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter (OTC) medications, vitamins and herbal supplements.

If you use multiple topical skin preparations, ask your doctor if they can be applied within a certain time frame.

See drug interactions here:

Which is more expensive, halobetasol or clobetasol?

Prices of these products vary, depending upon if you are getting the brand or generic option, have insurance coverage and a copay, or if you are paying cash and using an online coupon.

Approximate costs if you are paying cash with an online coupon, for both generic and brand examples, are listed below. Prices may vary based on location, coupon type and pharmacy.

If a generic is available, it will usually be a much lower cost option. It may pay to check between different pharmacies to compare prices. If you prefer generics, tell your doctor before they write your prescription.

Generic cost examples

Brand cost examples

Drugs.com Price Guide: You can view more prices and find a discount coupon here:

Bottom Line

This is not all the information you need to know about halobetasol or clobetasol for safe and effective use. Review the full monograph information here for both halobetasol and clobetasol, and discuss this information with your doctor or other health care provider.