Kloxema cream (Clobetasone Butyrate)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Prescription RequiredQuick Facts
What Is Kloxema Cream Used For?
Kloxema cream contains clobetasone butyrate 0.05% w/w, which belongs to a group of medicines called corticosteroids. It is designed to control skin inflammation and treat specific skin conditions.
Primary Uses
Kloxema cream is used to treat eczema and dermatitis. It helps control patches of dry, red, itchy, flaky or inflamed skin caused by these conditions.
How It Works
Kloxema cream works by stopping the skin’s over-reaction to triggers that cause skin flare-ups. It suppresses the inflammation that causes eczema or dermatitis and also has moisturizing properties.
Good to know: Your doctor may prescribe Kloxema cream for other purposes, so ask them about why this medicine has been recommended for you.
How to Take Kloxema Cream
Use the minimum amount of cream for the minimum amount of time. The cream should be applied carefully using the fingertip unit method for proper dosing.
Dosage Instructions
Adults and children over 12 years: Apply twice daily for up to 7 days. Squeeze cream along your index finger from the crease halfway to your fingertip – this covers a patch the size of your palm. Wash hands before and after application (unless treating your hands). Gently rub into affected area. Do not cover with bandages or dressings.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you forget an application, use it as soon as you remember. Do not try to make up for missed applications by using the cream more often, as this may increase the chance of side effects.
Important: Do not use for more than 7 days except on doctor’s advice. Be especially careful not to get cream in your eyes.
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- Rash
- Itching
- Local skin burning
- Skin thinning
- Skin bleaching or increased skin pigmentation
- Hair disorders
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Blurred vision or other vision disturbances
- Worsening of eczema or dermatitis symptoms
- Signs of allergic reaction (shortness of breath, wheezing, swelling of face/lips/tongue, skin rash or hives)
Important Warnings
There are several important situations where Kloxema cream should not be used, and certain precautions to consider before starting treatment.
Who Should Not Take Kloxema Cream
Do not use if you’re allergic to clobetasone butyrate, other corticosteroids, or any ingredients. Do not use on infected skin, cuts, open wounds, or inflamed skin near ulcers. Do not use to treat acne, rosacea, itching without rash, perioral dermatitis, bacterial infections (cellulitis, folliculitis, boils, impetigo), fungal infections (athlete’s foot, jock itch), viral infections (cold sores, chicken pox, shingles), parasitic infestations (scabies), or psoriasis unless recommended by your doctor.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Tell your doctor if you have kidney or liver problems. Do not use on delicate skin areas like face, groin, genitals, or between toes. Do not use to treat conditions other than eczema and dermatitis unless advised by your doctor.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Do not use if you are pregnant, may be pregnant, or are breastfeeding unless advised by your doctor. Your doctor will discuss possible risks and benefits if use during pregnancy or breastfeeding is considered necessary.
Children Under 12: Do not use on children under 12 years of age except on the advice of a doctor or pharmacist.
Drug Interactions
Kloxema cream may interact with other medications, particularly other corticosteroids and certain systemic medications.
Important: Do not use other corticosteroids (like hydrocortisone) on the skin while using this cream – you would be doubling the dose.
- Other corticosteroid medicines (eczema creams, asthma inhalers, tablets, injections, nasal sprays, eye or nose drops)
- Ritonavir (antiviral medicine)
- Itraconazole (antifungal agent)
Alcohol & Driving
The source material does not provide specific information about alcohol consumption or driving restrictions while using Kloxema cream.
Storage
Keep your cream in the original pack until ready to use. Store in a cool, dry place where temperature stays below 30°C. Do not store in the bathroom or near a sink. Do not leave on window sills or in cars, as heat and dampness can destroy the medicine. Keep where children cannot reach it – a locked cupboard at least 1.5 meters above ground is recommended. Do not use after the expiry date on the tube or carton.
Overdose Information
If you use slightly too much cream by mistake, don’t worry but try to keep to the fingertip unit guideline. Using corticosteroids on skin continuously over many weeks or months can cause skin thinning and permanent damage. If you or anyone swallows Kloxema cream, immediately telephone your doctor or Poisons Information Centre (Australia: 13 11 26, New Zealand: 0800 764 766) or go to the nearest hospital emergency department, even if there are no signs of discomfort. You may need urgent medical attention.
Frequently Asked Questions
Kloxema cream is designed to control skin conditions that should improve within a week of treatment. If your skin condition clears up in less than a week, you can stop using the cream.
No, do not use Kloxema cream for more than 7 days except on the advice of a doctor. Using it longer than recommended may cause side effects.
If your skin gets worse during treatment, stop using the cream and see your doctor as soon as possible. You may have a skin infection, an unrecognized trigger, or even an allergy to the cream.
Do not use other corticosteroids (like hydrocortisone) on the skin while using Kloxema cream, as you would be doubling the dose. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about using other skin products.
If you forget to apply Kloxema cream, use it as soon as you remember. Do not try to make up for missed applications by using the cream more often, as this may increase the chance of side effects.
No, do not cover the treated patch of skin with bandages, dressings, gloves, or plastic wrap, as this can cause more of the medicine to pass through the skin.
Common triggers include nickel in jewelry, earrings, coins, and watch buckles; rubber and pine tree sap in household items like plasters and rubber gloves; workplace substances like glues and oils; and certain plants and weeds in the garden.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.