Ultravate

Pronounced: ULL-trah-vate
Generic name: Halobetasol propionate

Why is Ultravate prescribed?

Ultravate is a high-potency steroid medication that relieves the itching and inflammation caused by a wide variety of skin disorders. It is available in cream and ointment formulations.

Most important fact about Ultravate

Some of the medication in Ultravate is inevitably absorbed through the skin and into the bloodstream. If applied over a large area, or under an airtight dressing, the drug can cause a number of unwanted side effects, including increased sugar in your blood and urine and a set of symptoms called Cushing's syndrome, characterized by a moon-shaped face, emotional disturbances, high blood pressure, weight gain, and growth of body hair in women. Use no more of this medication than your doctor directs, and do not bandage or wrap the affected area unless the doctor specifically recommends it.

How should you take Ultravate?

Use Ultravate only on the skin. Do not apply it to the face, groin, or armpits, and be careful to keep it out of your eyes.

When treating an infant's diaper area, do not use tight diapers or plastic pants, which can increase absorption of the drug.

--If you miss a dose...

Apply the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and return to your regular schedule.

--Storage instructions...

Store at room temperature.

What side effects may occur?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe to continue using Ultravate.

• More common side effects may include:
  Burning, itching, stinging

Why should Ultravate not be prescribed?

Do not use Ultravate to treat red eruptions around the mouth (perioral dermatitis) or the red facial patches caused by rosacea. Avoid Ultravate if it causes an allergic reaction.

Special warnings about Ultravate

Use of steroid medications can lead to a slowdown in the body's production of natural steroids and result in a shortage when the medication is stopped. To reduce the likelihood of this problem, use Ultravate for no more than 2 weeks at a time, and apply it only to small areas.

When used on children, steroid creams and ointments have been known to stunt growth and raise pressure inside the skull, resulting in headaches, bulges on the head, and loss of vision. Ultravate is not recommended for children under 12.