Calclob

Calcipotriol (0.005% w/w) + Clobetasol (0.05% w/w)
Price: ₹330 - ₹460 for 30gm tube (approx.)
Mfr: Dr. Reddy's Laboratories Ltd | Form: Ointment

📋 Clinical Overview

A fixed-dose combination topical medication for psoriasis, combining a vitamin D3 analogue (calcipotriol) with a super-potent topical corticosteroid (clobetasol propionate). This combination offers synergistic action: calcipotriol normalizes keratinocyte differentiation and proliferation, while clobetasol provides potent anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressive, and antiproliferative effects. It is a first-line treatment for moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in adults, offering superior efficacy and faster onset compared to monotherapy, while potentially reducing the risk of steroid-induced atrophy and calcipotriol-induced irritation.

💊 Dosage & Administration

Adult: Apply a thin layer once daily to the affected areas. Maximum recommended dose: Not more than 100 grams per week. Treatment area should not exceed 30% of body surface area.

Note: Apply to psoriatic plaques only, avoiding surrounding healthy skin, face, flexures, and genital areas. Wash hands before and after application. Do not use with occlusive dressings unless directed by a physician. Do not apply to broken or infected skin. Shake the bottle well if using a suspension or lotion.

⚠️ Contraindications

  • Hypersensitivity to calcipotriol, clobetasol, or any excipient.
  • Patients with disorders of calcium metabolism (e.g., hypercalcemia).
  • Viral skin infections (e.g., herpes simplex, varicella).
  • Fungal or bacterial skin infections at the site of application.
  • Perioral dermatitis, acne rosacea.
  • Children and adolescents below 18 years of age.

🔬 Mechanism of Action

The combination exerts a synergistic effect on plaque psoriasis by targeting multiple pathogenic pathways: abnormal keratinocyte proliferation/differentiation and immune-mediated inflammation.

🤕 Side Effects

  • Application site reactions: burning, itching, irritation, erythema.
  • Dry skin.
  • Skin atrophy (with prolonged use).
  • Folliculitis.
  • Perioral dermatitis (if applied on face).

🤰 Special Populations

Pregnancy: Category C (US FDA). Adequate human studies lacking. Topical corticosteroids, especially potent ones, can be absorbed in amounts sufficient to cause systemic effects in animal studies. Use only if potential benefit justifies potential risk to the fetus. Avoid large doses, prolonged use, or occlusive dressings.

Driving: No known effects on driving ability.

🔄 Drug Interactions

Other Topical CorticosteroidsIncreased risk of skin atrophy and systemic steroid effects.Major
Topical Retinoids (Tretinoin, Adapalene)May increase skin irritation.Moderate
CYP3A4 Inhibitors (e.g., Ketoconazole, Itraconazole, Clarithromycin)May increase systemic levels of clobetasol if absorbed, increasing risk of steroid side effects.Moderate
Diuretics (especially Thiazides)May exacerbate hypercalcemia risk with calcipotriol.Moderate
Cardiac Glycosides (Digoxin)Hypercalcemia may potentiate digoxin toxicity.Moderate

🔁 Alternatives to Calclob

Same composition (Calcipotriol (0.005% w/w) + Clobetasol (0.05% w/w)), different brands:

Dermosol-C Clobetacal Calpro-CT Calcipot-C