Clobetasol propionate foam in the treatment of psoriasis

Psoriasis is a common, chronic, distressing skin disorder that frequently affects the scalp, skin, nails and joints. Despite treatment, many patients suffer from unremitting disease and decreased quality of life. Scalp-type psoriasis is particularly difficult to treat. Although topical corticosteroids are the mainstay of therapy for moderate-to-severe disease, patients frequently object to the messiness and unfavourable cosmetic appearance of topical treatments. In this context, foam vehicles, which have the advantage of minimal residue and increased ease of application, have emerged as novel alternatives to traditional creams, ointments and solutions. Clobetasol propionate foam 0.05% (OLUX, Connetics Corporation), a high potency topical steroid, has been shown to alleviate symptoms of several dermatological conditions, including scalp and body psoriasis, improve disease severity and increase quality of life. Dose should be limited to 50 g/week, given the risk of adrenal suppression. Because patient preference is an important determinant of medication efficacy in clinical practice, clobetasol foam is a useful new formulation in the treatment of psoriasis and other skin conditions.