halobetasol propionate 0.05 % topical foam

Generic name:
Halobetasol foam - topical

Pronunciation
(HAL-oh-BAY-ta-sol)

Brand name(s)
Lexette

This medication is used to treat certain skin conditions (such as psoriasis). Halobetasol helps reduce the itching, redness, scaling, and swelling that can occur with these conditions. This medication is a very strong (super-high potency) corticosteroid.

Read the Patient Information Leaflet and Instructions for Use if available from your pharmacist before you start using halobetasol foam and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Use this medication only on the skin. However, do not use it on the face, groin, or underarms unless directed to do so by your doctor.

Shake the can well before using. Wash and dry your hands before applying the medication. Hold the can upside down to spray a small amount into the palm of your hand. Apply a thin layer onto the affected area(s) as directed by your doctor, usually 2 times daily. After applying the foam, gently rub in until the medication disappears. Do not cover, bandage, or wrap the area unless directed to do so by your doctor.

After applying the medication, wash your hands, unless you are using this medication to treat the hands. Avoid getting this medication in the eyes, nose, or mouth. If you get the medication in these areas, rinse with plenty of water.

Use this medication only for the condition it was prescribed for. Do not apply more than directed, or use it more often or for longer than prescribed by your doctor.

Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better or if it gets worse after 2 weeks.

Burning, stinging, irritation, dryness, or redness at the application site may occur. Acne, new/unwanted hair growth, small red bumps on the skin (folliculitis), skin thinning/discoloration, or stretch marks may also occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Skin infections can become worse when using this medication. Tell your doctor promptly if redness, swelling, or irritation does not improve.

Rarely, it is possible this medication will be absorbed from the skin into the bloodstream. This can lead to side effects of too much corticosteroid. These side effects are more likely in children, and in people who use this medication for a long time or over large areas of the skin. Tell your doctor right away if any of the following side effects occur:

• unusual/extreme tiredness
• weight loss
• headache
• swelling ankles/feet
• increased thirst/urination
• vision problems

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including:

• rash
• itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
• severe dizziness
• trouble breathing

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US -

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Before using halobetasol, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other corticosteroids (such as hydrocortisone, prednisone); or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history.

Do not use if there is an infection or sore in the area to be treated.

Rarely, using corticosteroid medications for a long time or over large areas of skin can make it more difficult for your body to respond to physical stress. Before having surgery or emergency treatment, or if you get a serious illness/injury, tell your doctor or dentist that you are using this medication or have used this medication within the past few months.

Though it is unlikely, this medication may temporarily slow down a child's growth if used for a long time. See the doctor regularly so your child's height can be checked.

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk when applied to the skin. Similar medications pass into breast milk when taken by mouth. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.

This medication may be harmful if swallowed. If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call 1-844-764-7669.

Do not share this medication with others.

This medication has been prescribed for your current condition only. Do not use it later for other skin problems unless your doctor tells you to. A different medication may be necessary in those cases.

Lab and/or medical tests (such as adrenal gland function) may be done while you are using this medication, especially if you use this drug for a long time or apply it over large areas of the body. Keep all medical and lab appointments.

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Store at room temperature. Do not freeze. Do not puncture the can or expose to high heat or open flame. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.