Dermovate

Dermovate is a topical steroid for short-term treatment of severe eczema or psoriasis manufactured by Glaxo Wellcome. Since its approval in the EU in 1993, it has helped many people treat irritation caused by eczema and other inflammatory skin conditions, such as psoriasis.

It is a highly potent steroid and is often used where other steroids have not worked, but should not be used for long periods. It is available as both a cream and an ointment.

Dermovate contains the active ingredient clobetasol propionate, which is a potent steroid. It works by blocking the release of chemicals that cause inflammation. This helps to control symptoms of psoriasis and eczema, including itching, irritation and dry scaly skin.

Studies show that Dermovate is an effective treatment for eczema and psoriasis.

Research shows that Dermovate significantly improved the severity of eczema symptoms after 2 weeks. There was also a lower rate of symptom relapse compared to other steroids.

Similarly, research shows that Dermovate can significantly reduce scaling and redness in psoriasis cases, with 8 in 10 people achieving almost clear skin after 4 weeks of treatment and 5 in 10 after 2 weeks.

Dermovate is effective within 2 weeks of treatment. However, it may take up to 4 weeks to see the full effects. You should not use it for longer than 4 weeks.

Dermovate is safe to use for most people with eczema or localised psoriasis. To be prescribed Dermovate from 121doc, you need to be diagnosed with psoriasis or eczema, and be aged 18 or over. Additionally, this treatment is not recommended if you have:

• acne
• perioral dermatitis (spotty red rash around the mouth)
• widespread plaque psoriasis
• rosacea
• untreated bacterial, fungal or viral skin conditions
• an allergy to clobetasol propionate or any other ingredients in Dermovate cream or ointment

Women who are breastfeeding can use Dermovate, but they should not apply it to their chest to limit the risk of exposure to an infant.

You apply a thin layer of Dermovate once or twice daily to the affected areas. How much you need to apply depends on the area you need to cover:

• face and neck: 2 ½ fingertip units
• back or front: 7 fingertip units
• one arm: 3 fingertip units
• both sides of one hand: 1 fingertip unit
• one leg: 6 fingertip units
• one foot: 2 fingertip units

Do not apply Dermovate more than directed. This will not improve your eczema quicker and may cause additional irritation.

Avoid applying it to the eyes, lips and nostrils. Do not apply to irritated, sunburnt or broken skin. You should also not apply Dermovate to the genital or anal areas.

If you use an emollient, wait for Dermovate to be absorbed into the skin before applying it. This will ensure the treatment is effective.

You should use Dermovate for no longer than 4 weeks. This is because it is a highly potent steroid, and you may be at a higher risk of side effects if taken for long periods. If your symptoms do not improve after 2 weeks, stop using it and consult your doctor or dermatologist.

Like all prescription medicines, Dermovate may cause side effects. The most common side effects should go away on their own once your body gets used to the medicine.

Common side effects (up to 1 in 10 people):

• burning sensation
• pain
• irritation
• itching

Speak to your doctor as soon as possible if you experience any persistent or serious side effects.

For a full list of side effects, please refer to the patient information leaflet (PIL).

Yes, research suggests Dermovate is a safe and clinically-proven topical steroid treatment. But if you have another medical condition or take other medication, your doctor will need to ensure it’s safe for you. Our doctors will also know whether it’s safe for you based on your medical questionnaire during the ordering process.

No, Dermovate is not available without a prescription. Our doctors will only prescribe treatment if you meet the criteria in your online consultation.

A prescription from a trusted healthcare provider like 121doc ensures:

• safety during treatment
• effective results
• monitoring of side effects

Yes, Dermovate is significantly stronger than Betnovate. Both are topical steroids, but Dermovate is classified as ‘very potent’ and Betnovate as ‘potent’. For this reason, Dermovate is better suited for more severe cases of psoriasis and eczema.

Eumovate is a lower-potency steroid containing clobetasone butyrate and is suitable for mild to moderate eczema or dermatitis. Dermovate, on the other hand, contains a very potent steroid (clobetasol propionate) reserved for severe and resistant forms of psoriasis and eczema that have not been successfully controlled by other steroids.

Dermovate ointment is an oil-based, thicker and more greasy formulation. It stays on the skin longer due to its high oil content, which helps to seal in moisture. It is best for smaller areas that are extremely dry, cracked and sensitive.

Dermovate cream is a lighter formulation that is more water-based. It absorbs faster and is potentially more suitable for applying to larger areas. It also feels less greasy, which is a texture some may prefer compared to the ointment.

No, Dermovate ointment and cream should not be used on the scalp. However, there is a form of Dermovate specifically designed for scalp problems called Dermovate Scalp Application. Consult your doctor or dermatologist for more information.

Yes, Dermovate can be prescribed for lichen sclerosus, a chronic skin condition that affects the skin around the vulva and anus in women. However, it is only prescribed online for eczema at 121doc.

Do not apply Dermovate to these areas without consulting your doctor first. If you think you may have lichen sclerosus, your doctor can discuss treatment options with you.

Yes, Dermovate can be used to treat conditions that affect the vulval skin, including lichen sclerosus and lichen planus, but you should only do so if your doctor has prescribed it for this purpose.