Ultravate

Common use

Ultravate (for the skin) is used to treat inflammation and itching caused by plaque psoriasis or skin conditions that respond to steroid medication. Halobetasol is a highly potent steroid that helps reduce inflammation in the body.

Dosage and direction

Do not take by mouth. Topical medicine is for use only on the skin. Do not use on open wounds or on sunburned, windburned, dry, or irritated skin. Rinse with water if this medicine gets in your eyes or mouth.
Wash your hands before and after using Ultravate, unless you are using this medicine to treat the skin on your hands. Apply a thin layer of Ultravate topical to the affected skin and rub it in gently. Do not apply this medicine over a large area of skin unless your doctor has told you to. Do not cover the treated skin area with a bandage or other covering unless your doctor tells you to.

Precautions

Tell your doctor if you have ever had: any type of skin infection; a skin reaction to any steroid medicine; an adrenal gland disorder; liver disease; or if you plan to have surgery.
Steroid medicines can increase the glucose (sugar) levels in your blood or urine. Tell your doctor if you have diabetes.
It is not known whether Ultravate will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant.
It may not be safe to breastfeed while using this medicine. Ask your doctor about any risk. If you apply halobetasol to your chest, avoid areas that may come into contact with the baby's mouth.

Contraindications

You should not use Ultravate if you are allergic to halobetasol. Ultravate is not approved for use by anyone younger than 12 years old.

Possible side effect

Common side effects of Ultravate may include: burning, stinging, itching, or dryness of treated skin; pain where the foam was applied; redness or crusting around your hair follicles; stretch marks; spider veins; headache; or cold symptoms such as stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat.

Drug interaction

Medicine used on the skin is not likely to be affected by other drugs you use. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all medicines you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Missed dose

Apply the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not apply two doses at one time.

Overdose

Seek emergency medical attention if anyone has accidentally swallowed the medication.

Storage

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not freeze. Keep away from children and pets.