Difference Between Clobetasol & Halobetasol
Clobetasol and halobetasol are topical steroids--preparations that treat inflamed skin. While doctors commonly prescribe either substance for sufferers of psoriasis, at least one clinical trial showed that halobetasol is slightly more effective.
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Features
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Halobetasol and clobetasol rate as Class 1 or "superpotent" topical steroids, according to the National Psoriasis Foundation's website. The foundation notes that clobetasol is available as a lotion, spray or shampoo under the brand name Clobex, as a cream under the brand name Cormax, and as a foam, sold as Olux. Halobetasol cream is sold under the Ultravate brand.
Differences
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Halobetasol and clobetasol have both demonstrated positive effects in cases of severe, localized psoriasis, according to a 1991 study published in the "Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology." The authors noted that 5 to 13 percent more participants who used halobetasol experienced positive outcomes--healing effects, speed of healing and ease of application--than those who used clobetasol.
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Warning
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Both steroids can have serious negative side effects. Stinging, burning and itching are common adverse effects of halobetasol, according to DailyMed. Laboratory animals exposed to halobetasol during gestation produced offspring with birth defects. The Reproductive and Cancer Hazard Assessment Section of California's Environmental Protection Agency lists clobetasol among several chemicals with proven toxic effects on developing embryos.
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References
- National Psoriasis Foundation: Topical Steroids Potency Chart
- "Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology"; Halobetasol and Clobetasol; B. Goldberg et al.; December 1991
- DailyMed: Halobetasol Propionate Cream
- California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment: Chemicals Under Consideration for Possible Listing
Resources
- Photo Credit examination image by JASON WINTER from Fotolia.com
