Halobetasol
Halobetasol is a high-potency topical corticosteroid used to treat inflammatory and itchy skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema. It works by reducing inflammation, suppressing immune responses, and decreasing the activity of immune cells in the skin. This medication is typically prescribed for short-term use due to its strength.
Halobetasol is a potent topical corticosteroid cream used to treat inflammatory skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema by reducing inflammation and suppressing local immune responses.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- D07AC21
- RxNorm
- 41208
- Generic
- Halobetasol
- Class
- atc-d07
- Brands
- Bryhali, Lexette, Duobrii, Ultravate
- Availability
- rx
- Pregnancy
- C
- Lactation
- caution
- Routes
- topical
- Forms
- cream, ointment
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- Apply thin layer to affected area twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- Apply thin layer to affected area once daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- Apply thin layer to affected area once daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
11 groupspregnancy
first trimesteravoid if possible
use only if benefits outweigh potential risks; avoid application to large surface areas
regular prenatal checkups
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pregnancy
second trimesteruse lowest effective dose
limit use to small affected areas for short duration
routine prenatal monitoring
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pregnancy
third trimesteruse lowest effective dose for shortest duration
avoid use on large body surface areas; do not use occlusive dressings
fetal growth monitoring if extensive use required
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
lactation
breastfeedinguse with caution
if applied to breast, wash thoroughly before breastfeeding; avoid application to nipple area
monitor infant for signs of adrenal suppression if extensive maternal use
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pediatric_age
under 12 yearsuse with extreme caution in children
not recommended for children under 12; if used, limit to small areas, shortest duration possible
monitor for growth suppression and adrenal suppression
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pediatric_age
12 to 18 yearsuse lowest effective dose
use for limited periods; avoid continuous long-term use
monitor growth and adrenal function with prolonged use
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
geriatric
elderlyuse with caution
use lower potency or reduced frequency; monitor for skin thinning
regular skin examination for atrophy
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
renal_impairment
mild to moderateno adjustment typically required
standard dosing for topical application; monitor for local skin reactions
routine monitoring
renal_impairment
severeuse with caution
minimize use on broken skin to reduce systemic absorption
monitor renal function periodically
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
hepatic_impairment
mild to moderateno adjustment typically required
standard topical dosing; minimize use on extensive areas of broken skin
routine monitoring
hepatic_impairment
severeuse with caution
limit to smallest effective area; avoid prolonged use
monitor hepatic function with extensive use
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
Statistics and clinical data
FDA Approval Year
General prescribing information for Halobetasol propionate topical formulations
Drug class
Classification as super-potent topical corticosteroid
Common uses
Therapeutic indications for Halobetasol topical preparations
Potency classification
Topical corticosteroid potency classification system
Halobetasol is primarily used to treat plaque psoriasis and other inflammatory skin conditions including eczema and dermatitis. It is prescribed when lower-potency corticosteroids have been ineffective.
As a high-potency topical corticosteroid, halobetasol works by binding to glucocorticoid receptors in skin cells. This interaction reduces the production of inflammatory substances, constricts blood vessels, and suppresses the local immune response that contributes to skin inflammation and scaling.
Halobetasol should be used sparingly and only on affected areas, typically for no more than 2 weeks due to risk of skin thinning and systemic absorption. It is not recommended for use on the face, groin, or underarms unless specifically directed by a physician. Patients should avoid bandaging or wrapping treated areas unless instructed.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 24, 2026. · Read our editorial policy