Halobet Cream (halobetasol) is a very potent topical corticosteroid that treats a number of corticosteroid-responsive skin conditions, such as psoriasis, eczema, severe allergic skin reactions, and so forth.

Like most topical treatments the risk of side effects is much lower than when the medication is taken internally. However, there is still a risk, and because Halobet Cream is so potent care should taken to use it properly. Rarely a doctor will advise otherwise, but without explicit doctor approval do not use this product:

• On the face or scalp
• On the groin
• In the armpits
• Under skin folds
• On any mucous membranes
• On broken skin
• On skin with a viral, bacterial, or fungal infection

Patients who need to treat any of the above areas should seek alternative treatments.

Those treating skin conditions on otherwise healthy skin not listed above will find Halobet cream resolves both the condition and the symptoms it produces, including swelling, itching, burning, and redness. Visual indications---rash, scaling, flaking skin, and so forth will begin to recede. By two weeks the condition should entirely or almost entirely in remission. Though use of Halobet Cream beyond two consecutive weeks is not recommended, even if treatment stops the condition should continue to heal for up to five additional weeks.

With doctor approval Halobet Cream can be used in patients age 12 to 18. The cream is not recommended for use in children under 12 years of age.

Applying the Cream

Halobet Cream is typically applied twice per day, morning and evening, unless instructed otherwise by a doctor. Application is simple:

• Clean and dry the affected area.
• Apply enough cream to thinly cover the area.
• Gently massage the cream into the skin until mostly absorbed.
• Wash hands after each application.
• Do not cover the treated area with tight or airtight dressings or clothing.
• Do not cover the treated area with makeup or other skincare products, even if non-medicated.

If the medication accidentally gets in the eyes, mouth, on broken skin, or other such areas it should be quickly rinsed off.

Treatment should continue until the condition is resolved or for two consecutive weeks, whichever is shorter. In most cases it takes five to seven days of treatment before improvements are really noticeable, and the condition should continue to improve or stay in remission for four to five weeks after ending treatment, though there is some variation here depending on a variety of personal factors.

Treatment can be repeated if needed in the future, provided at least six weeks have passed since the previous use ended, unless a doctor instructs otherwise.

If the condition does not improve significantly after two weeks of treatment, or worsens at any time during treatment, a doctor should be consulted; reassessment of the condition is called for.

Potential Complications

Some general information about corticosteroids that patients should be aware of:

• Corticosteroids can cause a range of permanent side effects in children, such as stunted growth.
• Corticosteroids can cause uncomfortable and unsightly side effects if used on the face, such as thinning skin.
• Patients allergic to one corticosteroid are at much higher risk of being allergic to another corticosteroid.
• All topical steroids can influence blood sugar levels, a concern for diabetics.

Speak with a doctor before using Halobet Cream if there is a history of:

• Blood circulation issues
• Immune system issues
• Adrenal gland issues
• Diabetes
• Vision problems

Serious side effects are rare when used as directed, but do happen. Seek medical attention if experiencing:

• Severe itching, peeling, or blistering at application site
• Eye pain or vision changes
• Easy bruising
• Muscle weakness
• Weight gain around neck, face, or upper back

More common side effects occur at the application site and are not cause for concern unless severe, including stinging, tingling, numbness, and redness. These typically fade away moments after application.

Effects on unborn or nursing babies are unknown; mothers should speak with a doctor about risks versus benefits prior to use.