clobetasol propionate

Modality

small molecule

Mechanism

12.1 Mechanism of Action Like other topical corticosteroids, clobetasol propionate shampoo, 0.05%, has anti-inflammatory, antipruritic, and vasoconstrictive properties. The mechanism of the anti-inflammatory activity of the topical steroids, in general, is unclear. However, corticosteroids are thought to act by the induction of phospholipase A 2 inhibitory proteins, collectively called lipocortins. It is postulated that these proteins control the biosynthesis of potent mediators of inflammation such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes by inhibiting the release of their common precursor, arachidonic acid. Arachidonic acid is released from membrane phospholipids by phospholipase A 2 .

Targets

Glucocorticoid receptor

Storage

—

Approved

psoriasis — FDA · rosacea — FDA

In trial

seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, alopecia areata

Sources

DailyMed (FDA label)DrugBank ClinicalTrials.gov

Last verified

2026-04-23

No curated MOA diagram yet. See lib/moa-data.ts for the shape; add an entry keyed by clobetasol propionate.

Formulations

0.05% cream0.05% ointment0.05% gel0.05% foam0.05% solution (scalp)0.05% shampoo0.05% spray