Ultravate Ointment is a topical medication made up of a super-high potency corticosteroid called halobetasol. We carry the brand choice of this medication in 0.05%!

Ultravate Ointment is used to treat a variety of skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. Psoriasis is a long term skin disease where the skin cells have a much faster rate of growth and because of this, the surface of the skin will collect a buildup of cells. The buildup will form red, raised patches that are covered with silver-colored scales. Eczema (atopic dermatitis) is when areas of the skin, commonly the face, neck, elbows, wrists, groin, knees, and ankles become inflamed. This condition is considered an allergic-type skin condition as most times eczema flares up due to allergens in the air such as pollen. When the skin becomes inflamed, it becomes red, itchy, and dry, and in some cases even cracked and leathery. If the inflamed skin is scratched, dry patches and open sores with crusts may develop, resulting in potential for infection. 

Ultravate Ointment (halobetasol) is effective at treating skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis because this corticosteroid is able to reduce the swelling, itching, and redness that can occur in these types of conditions.

Before using this medication, you should know: Only use this topical medication the way your doctor has prescribed it you.  You should only stop using this medication under the directions of your doctor. Typically, treatment does not last longer than 8 weeks as it is a short-term use medication. Do not take this medication by mouth; apply to affected areas on skin only. Do not put it on broken or damaged skin, on open wounds, or over large areas of skin. If contact with sensitive areas (mouth, eyes, nose, and ears) occurs; rinse with water. Do not cover the skin after applying the ointment; if it is on an area hidden by clothing; avoid wearing tight clothes after applying the medication. Store at room temperature away from risks of heat and moisture; do not freeze.

When you are ready to use this medication: Wash your hands before and after applying the medication, unless the affected area(s) are located on your hand(s). Apply a thin layer of ointment to the affected skin and gently rub it in.

Do not use Ultravate Ointment (halobetasol)

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to halobetasol or if you are under the age of 12 years old.

Dose adjustment or special precautions may be required

To ensure this medication is right for you, tell your doctor if you have ever had any type of skin infection, a skin reaction or any steroid medicine, liver disease, diabetes, or an adrenal gland disorder.

Risks

 If you have diabetes; this medication, since it is a steroid, it may increase the sugar levels in your blood. Tell your doctor if you have diabetes before using this medication.

It is not known if this drug will harm an unborn baby; don’t use this medication if you are pregnant until you have spoken to your doctor about the risks and benefits.

It may or may not be safe to breast feed while using this medication. If you are currently breast feeding or will be during the time of treatment; consult your doctor to learn about the risks and benefits. If you apply this ointment to your chest; ensure it is not in an area that will come into contact with the baby’s mouth.

Children are capable of absorbing more medicine through the skin and may be more likely to experience side effects.

Common side effects of Ultravate Ointment (halobetasol) may include:

burning, stinging, itching, or dryness of treated skin; redness or crusting around your hair follicles; stretch marks; spider veins; headache; or cold symptoms such as stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat.

The above side effects should not alarm you.

Serious side effects of Ultravate Ointment (halobetasol) may include:

worsening of your skin condition; redness, warmth, swelling, oozing, or severe irritation of any treated skin; blurred vision, tunnel vision, eye pain, or seeing halos around lights

If you have any of the above side effects, contact your doctor right away.

Please note this is not a complete list of side effects. Not everyone experiences side effects; they are not guaranteed. If you do have side effects and they become unmanageable, consult your doctor about alternate medications.

Contact your doctor if you notice signs of…

high blood sugar: increased thirst, increased urination, hunger, dry mouth, fruity breath odor, drowsiness, dry skin, blurred vision, and weight loss; or

absorbing medicine through skin: weight gain (especially in your face or your upper back and torso), slow wound healing, thinning or discolored skin, increased body hair, muscle weakness, nausea, diarrhea, tiredness, mood changes, menstrual changes, sexual changes.

How should I store this product?

Store this medication at room temperature in a low risk area of heat and moisture. Ensure it is in an area not accessible by children or pets.

What If I miss a dose?

Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. You may skip the missed dose if your next dose is quickly approaching. Do not apply extra ointment at your next dose to make up for the missed dose.

What should I avoid while using this medication?

Avoid using this medication on your face, scalp, underarms, or groin area or on conditions that your doctor did not prescribe it for.

What are other serious side effects I should keep an eye out for?

Some other serious side effects you should contact your doctor if noticed include stretch marks, skin thinning/discoloration, acne, excessive hair growth, "hair bumps" (folliculitis).