Eumovate Cream at 123 Meds

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Eumovate Cream

Category	Details
Type of Medicine	Moderate potency topical corticosteroid
Health Conditions Prescribed For	Eczema, dermatitis, allergic skin reactions, insect bites, psoriasis (excluding widespread plaque psoriasis)
Active Ingredient	Clobetasone butyrate 0.05% w/w
Brand Names	Eumovate
Available Strengths	0.05%
Available As	Cream and ointment
How It Works	Reduces inflammation, redness, and itching by suppressing the skin’s inflammatory response
Manufacturers	GlaxoSmithKline (now marketed by various license holders)

What is Eumovate Cream?

Eumovate Cream is a moderate-strength corticosteroid treatment for inflamed skin conditions. It contains clobetasone butyrate 0.05% as the active ingredient and is available as both a cream and an ointment. The cream is best for moist, weeping, or less dry skin, while the ointment is better for dry, thickened, or scaly skin.

How does Eumovate Cream work?

Clobetasone is a topical corticosteroid that reduces inflammation and irritation in the skin. It works by calming the body’s immune response, which relieves redness, itching, and swelling.

When to consider Eumovate Cream

Eczema and dermatitis flare-ups
Allergic or irritant skin reactions
Insect bites and stings
Localised psoriasis patches (not widespread plaque psoriasis unless advised by a doctor)

Who can use Eumovate Cream

Adults and children over 12 months, under medical guidance
People with mild to moderate inflamed skin conditions that have not improved with weaker corticosteroids such as hydrocortisone

Who should not use Eumovate Cream

Infants under 12 months
People with untreated skin infections (bacterial, viral, or fungal)
On acne, rosacea, or perioral dermatitis
On broken skin or around the eyes and genitals unless instructed by a doctor
If allergic to clobetasone or any of the cream’s ingredients

How to use Eumovate Cream

Apply a thin layer to the affected area once or twice daily.
Gently smooth into the skin until it disappears.
Use only on affected areas and for the shortest time possible, usually up to 7 days without medical review.
Do not cover with dressings or bandages unless told to by a doctor.
Wash hands after applying, unless treating the hands.

Possible side effects

Most people tolerate Eumovate well, but side effects may include:

Mild stinging, burning, or itching at the application site
Skin thinning or stretch marks with prolonged use
Changes in skin colour or texture
Worsening of existing skin infections if applied inappropriately
Rarely, allergic skin reactions

Alternatives to Eumovate Cream

Hydrocortisone cream or ointment (milder corticosteroid)
Stronger corticosteroids for severe or resistant skin conditions (on prescription only)
Emollients and moisturisers for ongoing skin care and flare-up prevention

Can you buy Eumovate Cream over the counter?

Yes. In the UK, small tubes of Eumovate Cream (15 g) can be bought in pharmacies for the short-term treatment of eczema, dermatitis, or insect bites. Larger pack sizes or longer courses require a prescription.

Adults and children over 12 months

Apply a thin layer of cream to the affected area once or twice daily.

Application

Gently rub into the skin until the cream disappears. Use only on affected skin.

Duration

Use for the shortest time needed, usually up to 7 days without review. If symptoms do not improve, consult a doctor or pharmacist.

Children under 12 months

Not recommended without medical advice.

Sensitive areas

Do not apply to the face, eyes, genitals, or broken skin unless directed by a doctor.

Occlusion

Do not use under airtight dressings or bandages unless specifically advised, as this increases absorption and risk of side effects.

Hands

Wash hands thoroughly after use unless treating the hands.

Important precautions

For external use only.
Do not use on untreated skin infections such as cold sores, athlete’s foot, or impetigo.
Avoid long-term continuous use to reduce the risk of thinning skin.
Discontinue and seek advice if irritation or worsening of symptoms occurs.

Active ingredient

Clobetasone butyrate 0.05% w/w

Inactive ingredients (excipients)

Glycerol
Cetostearyl alcohol
Arlacel 165 (macrogol cetostearyl ether and cetostearyl alcohol)
Liquid paraffin
White soft paraffin
Chlorocresol (as a preservative)
Sodium citrate
Citric acid monohydrate
Purified water

Always check the patient information leaflet (PIL) in your pack for the full ingredient list — especially if you have allergies or sensitivities.

Common or mild side effects (usually short-term, local reactions):

Burning, stinging, or itching at the application site
Dryness or redness of the skin
Irritation or rash

Less common side effects (more likely with prolonged or inappropriate use):

Thinning of the skin (atrophy)
Stretch marks (striae)
Dilated superficial blood vessels (telangiectasia)
Increased hair growth at the site (hypertrichosis)
Acne-like eruptions
Perioral dermatitis (rash around the mouth)
Changes in skin pigmentation (lighter or darker patches)

Rare but serious side effects (mainly with long-term use, high doses, or use under occlusion):

Worsening of untreated skin infections (bacterial, fungal, viral)

Allergic contact dermatitis

Secondary infection at the application site
Systemic absorption leading to adrenal suppression, growth delay in children, or features of Cushing’s syndrome (uncommon, but possible if used extensively or under occlusive dressings)

What does Eumovate cream do — why would I use it?
Eumovate calms down skin flare-ups by reducing inflammation, itch and redness. It’s stronger than everyday mild steroid creams, so it’s often chosen when milder treatments aren’t enough during a “flare.”
How often should I apply it, and for how long?
Usually once or twice a day depending on the instructions provided by your prescriber. You should not use it continuously for more than 4 weeks in adults. Once symptoms improve, use it less often, switch to a milder steroid or cease treatment.
Can I use it on my face, eyelids, or near my eyes?
It’s risky. The face and eyelid skin are more sensitive. Prolonged steroid use there can cause skin thinning, cataracts, glaucoma. Only use on these areas if a doctor or your 123Meds prescriber advises it. Avoid contact with eyes.
How is eczema treated?
Treatment usually includes moisturisers (emollients) to keep the skin hydrated and steroid creams or ointments to calm flare-ups. In some cases, antihistamines, bandages, or specialist treatments may be needed.
What if my skin doesn’t get better?
If you don’t see improvement in 2–4 weeks, or the rash is worsening, spreading or showing signs of infection (pus, swelling, pain), see a GP or a skin specialist. You can also call NHS 111 for advice.
Can children get eczema?
Yes. Eczema is common in children and often improves with age, though some may continue to have symptoms into adulthood.
Is it safe in pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Data are limited. Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding only if your GP advises the benefits justify the risks.
Can I use it on broken or sore skin?
No — avoid using it on broken, ulcerated, or heavily damaged skin unless recommended by a clinician.
What if I skip a dose?
Apply it as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one. Don’t double up.
Can I stop it suddenly if my skin is better?
If you’ve used it only briefly, stopping is usually okay. But after longer use, abrupt withdrawal may cause rebound flare-ups or adrenal suppression. It’s better to taper (reduce frequency) or switch to a weaker steroid under guidance.
What to check in the ingredients — could I be allergic?
Eumovate contains chlorocresol and cetostearyl alcohol, which may cause skin reactions in sensitive people. Always read the patient information leaflet (PIL) for the full ingredients list and allergy warnings.
What should I do if I get side effects?
Mild irritation is common and often temporary. But if you get a rash, swelling, blistering, or signs of allergy, stop use and get medical advice. For severe symptoms (facial swelling, breathing issues), call 999 / go to A&E immediately.