Aclobet 0.05% Ointment 10 gm tube

Aclobet 0.05% Ointment — Clobetasol Propionate Topical for Severe Inflammatory Skin Conditions

Overview

Aclobet 0.05% Ointment (Clobetasol Propionate) is a super-potent topical corticosteroid formulated for short-term treatment of severe, resistant inflammatory dermatoses. Clobetasol propionate is one of the most potent topical steroids available, providing rapid and powerful anti-inflammatory, antipruritic, and vasoconstrictive effects. The ointment base ensures optimal skin hydration and enhanced drug penetration compared to cream formulations, making it particularly suitable for dry, scaly, and thick plaques such as those seen in psoriasis and chronic eczema. Manufactured by The ACME Laboratories Ltd., Bangladesh, Aclobet 0.05% Ointment offers a cost-effective therapeutic option for dermatological conditions unresponsive to weaker topical steroids.

Composition

Each gram of Aclobet Ointment contains Clobetasol Propionate BP 0.05% (0.5 mg/g) in a white petrolatum-based ointment base. The ointment base consists of propylene glycol, white beeswax, and white soft paraffin, which form an occlusive film on the skin surface to enhance drug absorption and maintain skin moisture.

Mechanism of Action

Clobetasol propionate exerts its anti-inflammatory effects by binding to intracellular glucocorticoid receptors in keratinocytes and immune cells. The drug-receptor complex translocates to the nucleus and modulates gene transcription, suppressing the synthesis of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1, IL-2, IL-6, TNF-α), arachidonic acid metabolites (prostaglandins, leukotrienes), and histamine release. Its exceptionally high receptor affinity — approximately 18 times greater than hydrocortisone — accounts for its super-potent classification (Group I in the US; Class 1 in Bangladesh). Vasoconstriction reduces erythema and edema; suppression of epidermal proliferation reduces scaling and plaque formation.

Indications

Aclobet 0.05% Ointment is indicated for short-term treatment of severe inflammatory, pruritic, or hyperkeratotic dermatoses that are unresponsive to milder topical corticosteroids. Approved indications include: psoriasis vulgaris (particularly plaque-type); lichen planus; lichenified eczema (atopic, contact, seborrhoeic); discoid lupus erythematosus; lichen simplex chronicus; hypertrophic lichen planus; palmoplantar eczema; and other inflammatory conditions refractory to moderate-potency steroids. It should not be used on the face, groin, or axillae due to enhanced absorption and atrophy risk in those areas.

Dosage and Administration

Apply a thin film of Aclobet 0.05% Ointment to the affected area two times daily (morning and evening), or as directed by the physician. Gently rub into the skin. Treatment should not exceed 4 consecutive weeks without reassessment. Maximum weekly dose should not exceed 50 grams to avoid systemic absorption. Do not use under occlusive dressings unless specifically instructed. For scalp psoriasis, specialized scalp application forms are preferred. Avoid contact with eyes, mucous membranes, and broken skin.

Contraindications

Aclobet 0.05% Ointment is contraindicated in: hypersensitivity to clobetasol propionate or any ointment excipient; primary skin infections (bacterial, fungal, viral) not being co-treated with appropriate antimicrobial therapy; rosacea; perioral dermatitis; acne vulgaris; pruritus without dermatological diagnosis; application to the face, groin, axillae, or intertriginous areas; and use in neonates or infants. Not for ophthalmic use.

Side Effects

Local side effects from prolonged use include: skin atrophy, striae, telangiectasia, perioral dermatitis, hypertrichosis, acneiform eruptions, hypopigmentation, and contact dermatitis. Systemic effects occur with excessive use or prolonged application over large body surface areas, and include: adrenal suppression (HPA axis), Cushing's syndrome, growth retardation in children, hyperglycaemia, and glycosuria. Patients with diabetes mellitus should be monitored for blood glucose elevation when using potent topical steroids over large areas.

Warnings and Precautions

Use with extreme caution in diabetic patients — clobetasol propionate can cause clinically significant hyperglycaemia when applied to large skin areas or under occlusion. Do not use on the face, flexures, or in children under 12 years without specialist supervision. Avoid use during pregnancy (especially first trimester) and lactation unless benefit clearly outweighs risk. Withdraw gradually after prolonged use — abrupt discontinuation may cause rebound flare. Patients with psoriasis may experience generalised pustular psoriasis (von Zumbusch) on withdrawal. Protect treated areas from sun exposure.

Drug Interactions

Concurrent systemic corticosteroids increase the risk of HPA axis suppression and systemic side effects — use with caution. Antidiabetic medications may require dose adjustment if systemic absorption causes hyperglycaemia. Inhibitors of CYP3A4 (e.g., ritonavir, itraconazole) may increase plasma levels of clobetasol when used extensively — monitor for adrenal suppression. Salicylic acid preparations applied before clobetasol enhance percutaneous absorption.

Use in Special Populations

Pregnancy (Category C): Topical corticosteroids have been shown to cause fetal harm in animal models. Use only if clearly necessary during pregnancy. Lactation: Avoid application to breast or nipple area during breastfeeding. Paediatric use: Not recommended in children under 12 years without specialist supervision; children are more susceptible to systemic effects due to higher body surface area-to-weight ratio. Elderly: Use the minimum effective dose; atrophic skin in elderly is more susceptible to local adverse effects.

How Supplied

Aclobet 0.05% Ointment is available in a 10 gm aluminium tube with a sealed cap. Store below 30°C, protected from light. Keep all medicines out of reach of children. Do not use after the expiry date printed on the tube.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How is Aclobet 0.05% Ointment different from Aclobet Cream?
The ointment base contains white soft paraffin, which forms an occlusive layer on the skin, enhancing clobetasol absorption and providing greater moisturisation than the cream base. Ointments are preferred for dry, scaly, and thickened lesions such as plaque psoriasis and lichenified eczema. Creams are better tolerated in weeping, moist, or intertriginous lesions and are cosmetically less greasy.

Q2: Can I use Aclobet Ointment on my face for eczema?
No — Aclobet 0.05% is a super-potent corticosteroid and must never be applied to the face. Facial skin is thinner, and application causes rapid skin atrophy, telangiectasia, perioral dermatitis, and steroid-induced rosacea. A low-potency steroid such as hydrocortisone 0.5–1% is recommended for facial dermatoses under medical supervision.

Q3: I have Type 2 diabetes and psoriasis — is Aclobet Ointment safe for me?
It can be used cautiously under medical supervision, but blood glucose levels should be monitored during treatment. Clobetasol propionate applied over large skin areas can be absorbed systemically and cause hyperglycaemia. Your dermatologist and diabetologist should coordinate care. Use the smallest effective amount for the shortest possible duration.

Q4: How long can I continue using Aclobet 0.05% Ointment?
Continuous use should not exceed 4 weeks. The maximum safe weekly dose is 50 grams. After achieving control of the condition, your physician will typically switch you to a less potent topical steroid for maintenance. Prolonged use without medical supervision leads to skin atrophy, tolerance, and systemic steroid effects.