Tenovate (clobetasol propionate 0.05%) is a high-potency, Class I topical corticosteroid indicated for the short-term treatment of moderate to severe inflammatory and pruritic manifestations of corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses. It is formulated for rapid onset of action and significant anti-inflammatory, antipruritic, and vasoconstrictive effects. This product is reserved for cases where less potent corticosteroids have proven inadequate and is intended for use under strict medical supervision due to its potency. Its efficacy makes it a cornerstone in dermatological therapy for severe, recalcitrant conditions.

Features

• Contains clobetasol propionate 0.05%, a super-high-potency topical corticosteroid
• Available in multiple formulations: ointment, cream, gel, lotion, and shampoo to suit various dermatological needs and skin types
• Rapid percutaneous absorption for quick onset of pharmacological action
• Formulated with emollient bases in ointment and cream variants to reduce transepidermal water loss
• Alcohol-free gel and lotion formulations available for sensitive or hairy areas
• Occlusive properties enhance drug penetration in ointment form
• Preservative-free options minimize risk of contact dermatitis
• pH-balanced to match skin’s natural acidity, reducing irritation potential

Benefits

• Provides rapid relief from intense inflammation, itching, and redness associated with severe dermatoses
• High efficacy rate leads to quicker resolution of symptoms, potentially shortening treatment duration
• Multiple formulation options allow for tailored treatment based on lesion type, location, and patient preference
• Potent vasoconstriction reduces erythema and edema effectively
• Can help prevent scratching and secondary infections by controlling pruritus
• May reduce the need for systemic corticosteroids in some severe cases, minimizing systemic side effects

Common use

Tenovate is primarily prescribed for short-term treatment of severe, corticosteroid-responsive dermatological conditions. Its most frequent applications include psoriasis (particularly plaque psoriasis), especially in areas with thicker skin such as elbows, knees, and palms. It is also commonly used for severe eczema (atopic dermatitis) during flare-ups, lichen planus, lichen simplex chronicus, and discoid lupus erythematosus. The shampoo formulation is specifically indicated for treatment of scalp psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis. Off-label uses may include treatment of alopecia areata and vitiligo in some clinical scenarios, though these applications require careful risk-benefit assessment by a dermatologist.

Dosage and direction

Apply a thin film of Tenovate to the affected area once or twice daily, depending on severity and physician recommendation. The total dosage should not exceed 50 grams per week for most formulations. For the shampoo formulation, apply approximately 15 mL to the dry scalp, leave in place for 15 minutes, then add water, lather, and rinse thoroughly. Use should be limited to 2 consecutive weeks in most cases, and treatment should not exceed 4 weeks total duration. The affected area should be clean and dry before application. Wash hands thoroughly after application unless treating hands. Do not use occlusive dressings unless specifically directed by a physician, as this significantly increases systemic absorption and potential side effects.

Precautions

Tenovate should be used with extreme caution due to its high potency. Avoid application to the face, groin, axillae, or other intertriginous areas unless specifically prescribed, as these areas demonstrate enhanced percutaneous absorption. Use cautiously in patients with liver impairment, as corticosteroids are metabolized hepatically. Monitor for signs of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis suppression, especially with prolonged use, large treatment areas, or use under occlusion. Discontinue treatment if irritation develops. Patients should be advised that this is not for ophthalmic use and contact with eyes should be avoided. Use during pregnancy only if potential benefit justifies potential risk to fetus—corticosteroids have been shown to be teratogenic in animal studies.

Contraindications

Tenovate is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to clobetasol propionate or any component of the formulation. It should not be used in the treatment of rosacea, perioral dermatitis, or acne vulgaris. Contraindicated in patients with viral skin infections (including herpes simplex, varicella), fungal infections, or bacterial skin infections without appropriate concomitant antimicrobial therapy. Should not be used on ulcerated skin or open wounds. Not recommended for use in children under 12 years of age due to increased risk of systemic absorption and HPA axis suppression. Avoid use in patients with circulatory disorders or impaired skin barrier function.

Possible side effect

The most common side effects include localized burning, stinging, itching, irritation, dryness, and folliculitis at the application site. With prolonged use or overuse, more significant effects may occur including skin atrophy, striae, telangiectasia, hypopigmentation, and contact dermatitis. Systemic absorption may lead to reversible HPA axis suppression, manifestations of Cushing’s syndrome, hyperglycemia, glucosuria, and increased intracranial pressure. Rare but serious side effects include allergic contact dermatitis, secondary infections, and rebound flare of underlying condition upon discontinuation. Pediatric patients may be more susceptible to systemic toxicity, including linear growth retardation and delayed weight gain.

Drug interaction

Concurrent use with other topical corticosteroids may increase the risk of additive effects and systemic absorption. Use with other medications that suppress the immune system may increase risk of infection. Tenovate may interact with drugs that are metabolized by CYP3A4 enzymes, though this is more relevant with systemic corticosteroids. The occlusive effect of certain dressings or emollients may significantly enhance absorption and potential systemic effects. No well-controlled drug interaction studies have been performed with topical clobetasol propionate, but interactions typical of systemic corticosteroids should be considered possible with significant absorption.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, apply it as soon as remembered unless it is almost time for the next scheduled application. Do not apply double the amount to make up for a missed dose. Resume the regular dosing schedule. The potency of Tenovate means that occasional missed doses are unlikely to significantly impact treatment efficacy, but consistency provides optimal results. If multiple doses are missed or treatment is interrupted for several days, consult with the prescribing physician before resuming therapy.

Overdose

Topical overdose may result in increased incidence of local adverse effects including severe skin atrophy, striae, and systemic effects. Acute overdose is unlikely through topical application but could occur with excessive application over large body surface areas, prolonged use, or use under occlusion. Symptoms of systemic overdose include hypercorticism including moon face, central obesity, glucose intolerance, and hypertension. Treatment involves discontinuation of the medication and supportive care. In cases of significant systemic absorption, monitoring of electrolyte balance and blood glucose may be necessary. There is no specific antidote for corticosteroid overdose.

Storage

Store Tenovate at controlled room temperature between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Excursions permitted to 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Keep the tube tightly closed when not in use. Protect from freezing and excessive heat. Do not store in bathroom where moisture and humidity levels fluctuate. Keep all medications out of reach of children and pets. Do not use after expiration date printed on packaging. Different formulations may have specific storage requirements—ointment formulations are generally more stable than cream or lotion formulations.

Disclaimer

This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Tenovate is a prescription medication that should be used only under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Individual results may vary. The safety and effectiveness of Tenovate in pediatric patients have not been established. Patients should consult their healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read in this product information.

Reviews

Clinical studies demonstrate that Tenovate produces complete clearing or excellent improvement in approximately 85% of patients with plaque psoriasis within two weeks of treatment. In a randomized controlled trial of 240 patients with moderate to severe psoriasis, 78% of patients using clobetasol propionate cream achieved treatment success compared to 12% in the vehicle group. Dermatologists consistently rate Tenovate as highly effective for severe, recalcitrant dermatoses, though emphasize the importance of appropriate patient selection and monitoring. Patient reviews frequently mention rapid relief of itching and inflammation, though some report concerns about skin thinning with prolonged use. The shampoo formulation receives particularly positive feedback from scalp psoriasis patients who have failed other treatments.