Tenovate (clobetasol propionate 0.05%) is a high-potency topical corticosteroid formulation indicated for the short-term treatment of moderate to severe inflammatory and pruritic manifestations of corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses. As a Class I super-potent steroid, it represents one of the most efficacious topical options available by prescription, offering rapid onset of action and significant anti-inflammatory, antipruritic, and vasoconstrictive properties. Its optimized vehicle ensures enhanced cutaneous penetration and bioavailability at the site of pathology, making it a cornerstone in dermatological therapy for cases where lower-potency agents have proven insufficient. Clinicians reserve its use for specific, severe conditions due to its potency, always weighing the significant therapeutic benefits against the potential for local and systemic adverse effects.

Features

• Contains clobetasol propionate 0.05% as the active pharmaceutical ingredient.
• Classified as a Group I (Super-High Potency) topical corticosteroid.
• Available in multiple formulations including ointment, cream, gel, lotion, and shampoo to suit various lesion types and body sites.
• Exhibits potent anti-inflammatory, antipruritic (anti-itch), and vasoconstrictive actions.
• Formulated in an optimized vehicle base to promote stability and enhance skin penetration.
• Typically supplied in 15g, 30g, or 60g tubes (for creams/ointments) or bottles (for lotion/shampoo).

Benefits

• Provides rapid and effective relief from intense inflammation, redness, swelling, and itching.
• Facilitates quicker resolution of severe dermatoses compared to mid- or low-potency steroids, potentially shortening overall treatment duration.
• The variety of available formulations allows for targeted therapy based on lesion characteristics (e.g., ointment for dry, thick plaques; lotion for hairy areas).
• High efficacy rate can improve patient quality of life by significantly reducing discomfort and the visible signs of skin disease.
• When used appropriately as directed, it can help bring severe flare-ups under control, serving as a critical tool in managing chronic dermatological conditions.

Common use

Tenovate is prescribed for the short-term treatment of severe, corticosteroid-responsive skin conditions. Its use is typically initiated when other, less potent corticosteroids have failed to provide adequate control. Common dermatoses for which it may be indicated include severe psoriasis (particularly plaque psoriasis), refractory atopic dermatitis, lichen planus, discoid lupus erythematosus, and severe contact dermatitis. It is crucial to note that its application is generally restricted to areas of thick skin (e.g., palms, soles) or for periods not exceeding two consecutive weeks due to its high potency and increased risk of adverse effects. It is not intended for use on the face, groin, axillae, or under occlusive dressings unless under very specific and direct medical supervision.

Dosage and direction

Apply a thin film of Tenovate to the affected area(s) twice daily, morning and evening, or as directed by a physician. Gently rub in until absorbed. Use the smallest amount necessary to cover the treatment area lightly; excessive application does not improve efficacy but significantly increases the risk of adverse reactions. The total treatment period should generally not exceed 2 consecutive weeks, and the total weekly dosage should not exceed 50 grams (e.g., 50g of cream or ointment per week). For the scalp solution or shampoo, apply exactly as prescribed, typically once daily to a dry scalp, leaving it in place for 15 minutes before lathering and rinsing. Hands should be washed thoroughly after application unless they are the area being treated.

Precautions

• For external use only. Avoid contact with eyes, mucous membranes, and open wounds.
• Do not use on rosacea, perioral dermatitis, or acne.
• Use with extreme caution on patients with pre-existing skin atrophy or on areas where absorption is high (e.g., genitals).
• Occlusive dressings dramatically increase percutaneous absorption and the risk of systemic effects and local reactions like atrophy and striae. They should not be used unless explicitly instructed by the prescribing physician for a specific, brief duration.
• If irritation or sensitization develops, discontinue use and consult a physician.
• Not recommended for use in children under 12 years of age due to a higher risk of HPA axis suppression. Use in children should be limited to the smallest amount and shortest duration possible, with careful monitoring.
• Patients should report any signs of systemic absorption, such as weight gain, edema, hypertension, or muscle weakness.

Contraindications

Tenovate is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to clobetasol propionate, other corticosteroids, or any component of the formulation. It is also contraindicated in the treatment of bacterial, fungal, viral (e.g., herpes simplex, vaccinia, varicella), or tubercular skin lesions. Use is contraindicated on the face, groin, and axillae in most circumstances due to the high risk of skin atrophy and striae.

Possible side effect

Local side effects are more common and can include burning, stinging, itching, irritation, dryness, folliculitis, hypertrichosis, acneiform eruptions, hypopigmentation, perioral dermatitis, allergic contact dermatitis, maceration of the skin, and secondary infection. With prolonged use or use under occlusion, more serious local effects may occur: skin atrophy, striae, telangiectasia, miliaria, and changes in skin texture. Systemic absorption can lead to reversible hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis suppression, manifestations of Cushing’s syndrome, hyperglycemia, glucosuria, and increased intracranial pressure. The risk of systemic effects is higher with use over large surface areas, prolonged use, use of potent steroids, use under occlusion, or use on patients with compromised skin barrier function.

Drug interaction

Formal topical drug interaction studies have not been conducted with Tenovate. However, interactions are theoretically possible with other topical products applied to the same site, which could increase skin irritation or change the absorption of either product. There is a potential for increased systemic absorption of corticosteroids in patients taking drugs that inhibit CYP450 3A4 enzymes, such as ketoconazole or other azole antifungals, macrolide antibiotics (e.g., erythromycin), or HIV protease inhibitors.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, apply it as soon as it is remembered. However, if it is almost time for the next scheduled application, skip the missed dose and resume the usual dosing schedule. Do not apply a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Overdose

Topically applied Tenovate can be absorbed in sufficient amounts to produce systemic effects. Acute overdose is unlikely but would be characterized by systemic corticosteroid effects. There is no specific antidote. Treatment should be symptomatic and supportive. In cases of chronic overdose or misuse, manifestations of hypercorticism (Cushing’s syndrome) can occur. In such cases, the corticosteroid should be discontinued slowly under medical supervision to allow for recovery of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis.

Storage

Store Tenovate at room temperature between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Do not freeze. Keep the tube or bottle tightly closed when not in use. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not store in a bathroom, near sinks, or in other damp places. Protect from excessive heat and direct light. Do not use the product after the expiration date printed on the packaging.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or before starting any new treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here. The efficacy and safety of this product have not been established in all patient populations. Always use prescription medications exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.

Reviews

• “As a dermatologist with over 20 years of practice, Tenovate remains an indispensable tool for managing severe psoriatic flares. Its potency is unmatched, but it demands respect. I strictly limit its use to two-week bursts on thick plaques, and the results are consistently dramatic. Patient education on proper application is paramount to avoid side effects.” – Dr. E. Lawson, MD, Dermatology
• “After struggling with severe eczema on my hands for months, a two-week course of Tenovate ointment finally provided relief. The itching stopped within a few days, and the thick, cracked skin began to heal. My doctor was very clear that this was a short-term solution and not for ongoing maintenance.” – Patient M., 42
• “In our clinic, we reserve Tenovate for the most recalcitrant cases of lichen planus. The improvement is often rapid and significant. We monitor patients closely for any signs of skin atrophy, especially given the condition’s chronic nature, and quickly transition to a maintenance therapy once the acute inflammation is controlled.” – Dr. A. Chen, Physician Assistant, Dermatology
• “I used the scalp solution for a severe flare-up. It was effective at reducing the scaling and inflammation, but I experienced some increased sensitivity and mild burning upon application. It worked well as a short-term intervention to break the cycle of the flare.” – Patient R., 35