Health Library

Halobetasol (On the skin)

Halobetasol (hal-oh-BAY-ta-sol)

Treats skin disorders, including plaque psoriasis. This medicine is a corticosteroid.

Brand Name(s):

Bryhali, Lexette, Ultravate

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Cream, Foam, Lotion, Ointment

• Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
• This medicine is for use on the skin only. Do not get it near your eyes, nose, mouth, underarms, or genitals. Do not use on skin areas that have cuts or scrapes. Do not apply the lotion to your nipple or areola, if you are breastfeeding. If it does get on these areas, rinse it off right away.
• Wash your hands with soap and water before and after you use this medicine.
• Foam: Shake the aerosol can just before using. Hold the can 3 to 6 inches from the skin and spray for about 2 seconds.
• Apply a thin layer of the medicine to the affected area. Rub it in gently.
• If you are applying this medicine to the diaper area of a child, use only loose-fitting diapers or plastic pants. Tight-fitting diapers may cause too much medicine to be absorbed through the skin.
• Do not cover the treated area with a bandage unless directed by your doctor.
• Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
• Missed dose: Apply a dose as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and apply a regular dose. Do not apply extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
• Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Do not freeze. Do not keep this medicine inside a car where it could be exposed to extreme heat or cold. Do not poke holes in the canister or throw it into a fire, even if the canister is empty.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Do not put cosmetics or skin care products on the treated skin.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have diabetes, Cushing syndrome, or any type of skin infection.
• This medicine may cause the following problems:
  • Adrenal gland problems, including Cushing syndrome
  • Serious skin reactions, which may occur if you cover the treated skin area or use the lotion for a long time
  • High blood sugar
  • Eye or vision problems (including cataracts, glaucoma)
• Do not use this medicine to treat a skin problem your doctor has not examined.
• If your symptoms do not improve within 2 weeks of treatment, or if they get worse, check with your doctor.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Blistering, peeling, or pus on treated skin areas
• Blurred vision or other changes in vision, eye pain
• Color changes on the skin, dark freckles, easy bruising, muscle weakness
• Round, puffy face
• Severe skin itching, rash, or redness
• Weight gain around your neck, upper back, breast, face, or waist

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Numbness, tingling, or stinging at the application site

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 9/6/2024