Indications
Clascoterone is a cream (usually 1%) used on the skin to treat acne vulgaris (pimples, blackheads and whiteheads) in people aged 12 years and older. It is a newer type of acne treatment that targets the hormonal cause of acne directly in the skin.
How It Works
Male-type hormones called androgens, which are present in both men and women, make the oil glands in the skin bigger and more active. Clascoterone blocks androgen receptors in the skin’s oil glands and hair follicles. This reduces oil (sebum) production and inflammation, helping to clear and prevent acne spots. Very little reaches the bloodstream when used correctly.
Dosage and Administration
- Gently wash and dry the affected area. Apply a thin layer (about 1 g, roughly a fingertip amount, for the whole face) twice a day, morning and evening.
- Avoid the eyes, mouth, nostrils and broken or sunburnt skin. Wash your hands after use.
- Do not apply more than prescribed and do not cover with dressings. Improvement may take 8 to 12 weeks.
Interactions
No important interactions with medicines taken by mouth are known. Using other acne products at the same time (such as Benzoyl Peroxide, Adapalene, Tretinoin or Salicylic Acid) may increase dryness and irritation; ask your doctor how to combine them. Avoid harsh scrubs, astringents and alcohol-based products on treated skin.
Contraindications
Do not use if you are allergic to Clascoterone or any ingredient of the cream.
Side Effects
The most common effects are at the application site: redness, peeling, dryness, itching, stinging or swelling. Rarely, if used on large areas or for a long time, it may affect the body’s natural steroid hormone (cortisol) production, especially in teenagers, and may raise potassium levels.
Get urgent medical help if you have severe skin reaction, swelling of the face or throat, or signs of low cortisol such as extreme tiredness, weakness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting or weight loss.
Pregnancy and Lactation
There is limited information on use in pregnancy. It should be used only if a doctor considers it necessary; tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning pregnancy. It is not known if it passes into breast milk; ask your doctor before use while breastfeeding and do not apply it to the breast area.
Precautions and Warnings
- For external use on the skin only.
- Use only on the areas and amounts prescribed; large-area or long-term use increases the risk of hormonal effects.
- Not studied in children under 12 years.
- Your doctor may check hormone levels if you use it on large areas.
Overdose
Using too much on the skin increases irritation and the risk of hormonal side effects. If swallowed, contact a doctor or poison centre.
Therapeutic Class
Topical androgen receptor inhibitor (anti-acne agent).
Storage
Store as directed on the pack: many clascoterone creams need to be kept in a refrigerator at 2 to 8°C before opening and can be kept at room temperature for a limited time after dispensing. Do not freeze. Keep out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.