Alclometasone is a prescription topical drug used to treat a number of acute and chronic skin conditions. It is a corticosteroid that works by suppressing the immune system's inflammatory response, thereby relieving itching, redness, burning, and other skin symptoms. When alclometasone is used as instructed by the prescribing doctor, it can be highly effective at lessening symptoms and shortening the healing time of rashes. There are some slight risks of negative reactions and side effects that should be discussed with a physician before starting treatment.
Mild corticosteroids such as alclometasone and hydrocortisone are often prescribed as first-line treatments for skin rashes. There are more potent steroid drugs available if symptoms persist or worsen despite using a lower-strength medication. For most patients, using alclometasone two to three times a day on affected areas of skin is enough to see improvements in just a few days. It is generally safe for use in children and adults who suffer from psoriasis, allergic skin reactions, and chronic eczema.
Alclometasone contains the same type of steroid hormones that are produced by the adrenal glands. Both natural adrenal hormones and synthetic steroids help to lessen inflammation in body tissue. As the drug is absorbed into the skin, it blocks the chemical signals from the immune system that cause inflammation and related symptoms such as itching, swelling, and redness.
There are few risks of side effects with proper alclometasone use. Some patients may experience mild increases in their skin symptoms immediately after applying a dose, but they generally go away in a few minutes. The drug can thin and soften the skin, and prolonged use may result in slight skin discoloration and an increased chance of developing a localized infection. An allergic reaction is rare but possible, and using the medication could cause widespread hives and throat and mouth swelling. It is important to contact a physician if breathing difficulties arise or if skin symptoms worsen during treatment.
Very rarely, the active steroid ingredient in alclometasone can penetrate deep within the skin and reach underlying blood vessels. The result can be increased hair growth or acne in a particular area, blurred vision, mood changes, weight gain, and muscle weakness. Such side effects are signs of a serious medical problem that need to be addressed right away in order to prevent complications. A doctor can determine whether a different steroid drug should be prescribed or another form of treatment should be considered if major side effects develop.