Hexoderm Cream: Complete Medicine Guide
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026
When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY
- Severe allergic reaction with swelling of the face, lips, or throat, or difficulty breathing.
- Signs of skin thinning, stretch marks, or visible blood vessels appearing on treated skin.
- Increasing pain, swelling, redness, or pus at the application site.
- Symptoms of high blood sugar such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, or blurred vision.
- Signs of adrenal suppression such as severe weakness, dizziness, or fainting.
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or persistent nausea.
- Fungal infection spreading or worsening despite treatment.
- New rash or severe irritation after applying the cream.
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is hexoderm cream used for?
This medicine is a prescription topical cream combining terbinafine (an antifungal) and clobetasol (a strong steroid) to treat inflamed fungal skin infections. It should be used for short periods only, as directed by a doctor, because prolonged use of the steroid can thin the skin.
- Generic Name: Terbinafine (1% w/w) + Clobetasol (.05% w/w)
- Manufacturer: Medhexa Pharma
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 hexoderm cream के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा एक प्रिस्क्रिप्शन क्रीम है जिसमें टर्बिनाफाइन (एक एंटीफंगल) और क्लोबेटासोल (एक शक्तिशाली स्टेरॉयड) शामिल हैं। इसका उपयोग सूजन वाले फंगल त्वचा संक्रमण जैसे दाद, खुजली और एथलीट फुट के इलाज के लिए किया जाता है। यह खुजली, लालिमा और सूजन को कम करने में मदद करती है। इसका उपयोग केवल डॉक्टर के निर्देशानुसार और सीमित समय के लिए ही करना चाहिए, क्योंकि लंबे समय तक उपयोग से त्वचा पतली हो सकती है। इसे चेहरे, जांघों के बीच या बगल में बिना डॉक्टर की सलाह के न लगाएं।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में लगाने की जगह पर हल्की जलन, खुजली, लालिमा या सूखापन शामिल है। ये आमतौर पर अस्थायी होते हैं। लंबे समय तक उपयोग से त्वचा पतली होना, खिंचाव के निशान, रक्त वाहिकाओं का दिखना और मुँहासे जैसे दाने हो सकते हैं। कभी-कभी स्टेरॉयड शरीर में अवशोषित होकर रक्त शर्करा और रक्तचाप बढ़ा सकता है। गंभीर एलर्जी प्रतिक्रिया दुर्लभ है, लेकिन यदि सांस लेने में कठिनाई, चेहरे या गले में सूजन हो तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से मिलें।
सुरक्षा सलाह: इस क्रीम को केवल प्रभावित त्वचा पर और डॉक्टर द्वारा बताई गई अवधि तक ही लगाएं। लगाने से पहले और बाद में हाथ धोएं। आंखों, मुँह और नाक के संपर्क में न आने दें। बिना डॉक्टर की सलाह के पट्टी या प्लास्टिक रैप से ढकें नहीं। चेहरे, जांघों के बीच या बगल में बिना सलाह के न लगाएं। गर्भवती या स्तनपान कराने वाली महिलाएं डॉक्टर से सलाह लें। बच्चों की पहुंच से दूर रखें। दूसरों के साथ साझा न करें।
💊 hexoderm cream Uses & Benefits
[{"condition":"Tinea corporis with inflammation","description":"Used for short-term treatment of ringworm of the body when significant redness, swelling, or itching is present.","evidence":"Well-established for the combination in short-term use"},{"condition":"Tinea cruris with inflammation","description":"Used for jock itch with marked inflammatory symptoms, but only for a limited duration and under medical supervision.","evidence":"Well-established for short-term use"},{"condition":"Tinea pedis with inflammation","description":"Used for athlete's foot with prominent inflammation, itching, or fissuring, typically for a short course.","evidence":"Well-established for short-term use"},{"condition":"Tinea manuum with inflammation","description":"Used for fungal infection of the hands with inflammatory features, for a limited period.","evidence":"Limited to short-term use"},{"condition":"Cutaneous candidiasis with inflammation","description":"May be used for inflamed yeast infections of the skin folds for a short duration.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Inflammatory dermatophytosis unresponsive to standard antifungals","description":"Sometimes prescribed for a short period when fungal infection is accompanied by severe inflammation.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Eczema with suspected fungal infection","description":"Occasionally used when a fungal infection is suspected alongside eczema, but this is not a standard approved use.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Primary treatment for: Inflammatory fungal skin infections (dermatophytosis with inflammation)
Also treats: Tinea corporis, Tinea cruris, Tinea pedis, Tinea manuum, Cutaneous candidiasis with inflammation
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Terbinafine (1% w/w) + Clobetasol (.05% w/w) |
| Brand Name | hexoderm cream |
| Manufacturer | Medhexa Pharma |
| Packaging / Form | Varies by brand (Allopathy) |
| Therapeutic Class | DERMA |
| Action Class | |
| Route of Administration | Topical |
| Storage | Store at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C. Protect from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep the tube tightly closed when not in use. |
| Shelf Life | Refer to the expiry date printed on the pack. Do not use after the expiry date. |
| WHO Guideline | Not established from the available information. The World Health Organization does not provide specific recommendations for this fixed-dose combination. Consult your doctor for guidance. |
| ICMR Guideline | Not established from the available information. The Indian Council of Medical Research has not issued specific guidelines for this combination. Consult your doctor for guidance. |
👨⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips
Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians
🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?
Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.
🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)
Pharmacokinetics
How It Works
This medicine combines two active ingredients with different mechanisms. Terbinafine inhibits the fungal enzyme squalene epoxidase, leading to a deficiency of ergosterol, which is a key component of the fungal cell membrane. This causes the fungal cell membrane to become weak and leaky, ultimately killing the fungus. Clobetasol propionate is a very potent corticosteroid that binds to glucocorticoid receptors inside cells. This binding reduces the production of inflammatory substances such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes, and it suppresses the migration of immune cells to the skin. The result is rapid relief of redness, swelling, itching, and pain. The combination is intended to treat the fungal infection while quickly calming the associated inflammation.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take hexoderm cream
Strength: Topical cream containing terbinafine 1% w/w and clobetasol propionate 0.05% w/w.
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | Apply a thin layer of this medicine to the affected skin area once or twice daily, or as directed by your doctor. The exact duration and frequency depend on the type and severity of the infection and the presence of inflammation. Typically, treatment is short-term, often not exceeding 2 to 4 weeks. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. Do not use more than prescribed. |
| Pediatric Dosage | Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician. This medicine is generally not recommended for children under 12 years of age unless specifically prescribed by a pediatrician. |
| Elderly Dosage | Elderly patients may be more susceptible to the side effects of topical corticosteroids, including skin thinning. Use the lowest effective amount for the shortest duration. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician. |
| Renal Impairment | No specific dose adjustment is established for topical use in patients with kidney impairment. Systemic absorption is low. Consult your doctor for guidance. |
| Hepatic Impairment | No specific dose adjustment is established for topical use in patients with liver impairment. Systemic absorption is low. Consult your doctor for guidance. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | The maximum daily dose is not established from the available information. Use only as prescribed by your doctor, and do not exceed the recommended frequency or duration. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of hexoderm cream
✅ Common Side Effects
🚨 Serious Side Effects
⚠️ Rare Side Effects
Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
🔬 Drug Interactions
| Drug | Severity | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Other topical corticosteroids | Major | |
| Oral corticosteroids | Major | |
| Fluconazole | Moderate | |
| Ketoconazole (oral) | Moderate | |
| Ritonavir | Moderate | |
| Warfarin | Minor | |
| Insulin or oral antidiabetics | Minor | |
| Antihypertensives | Minor | |
| Diuretics | Minor | |
| Other topical antifungals | Minor |
🚨 Major Interactions
- Other topical corticosteroids
- Oral or injectable corticosteroids
⚡ Moderate Interactions
- CYP2C9 inhibitors (e.g., fluconazole)
- CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, ritonavir)
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
No specific interaction between this topical medicine and alcohol is established from the available information. However, alcohol may worsen certain skin conditions and can affect liver function if you are also taking oral medicines. Consult your doctor for personalized advice.
🔎 Check Your Other Medicines
Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.
🛡️ Safety & Warnings
🚫 Contraindications
["Known allergy or hypersensitivity to terbinafine, clobetasol, or any other ingredient in this medicine.","Untreated bacterial, viral, or parasitic skin infections.","Acne vulgaris, rosacea, and perioral dermatitis.","Use on the face, groin, or underarms unless specifically directed by a doctor.","Use in children under 12 years of age unless prescribed by a pediatrician.","Use for prolonged periods without medical supervision."]
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
["For external use only. Do not swallow.","Avoid contact with eyes, lips, and mucous membranes.","Do not use on open wounds or broken skin unless directed by a doctor.","Do not cover with tight dressings or plastic wraps unless instructed.","Do not use for longer than the prescribed duration, as prolonged steroid use can cause skin thinning and other side effects.","If the condition worsens or does not improve within the expected time, consult your doctor.","Keep out of reach of children.","Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding.","Inform your doctor if you have diabetes, hypertension, or a weakened immune system.","Do not share this medicine with others."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
It is not known whether topical terbinafine or clobetasol is excreted in breast milk in significant amounts. To minimize infant exposure, do not apply this medicine to the breast or nipple area, and avoid applying to large areas of skin while breastfeeding. Consult your doctor for guidance.
💊 Overdose Management
This medicine is for topical use. Accidental ingestion may cause stomach upset or other symptoms. If someone swallows this medicine, rinse the mouth and seek medical attention immediately. Prolonged excessive topical application can lead to systemic steroid effects. If you suspect overdose or have applied too much for too long, contact your doctor or a poison control center for advice.
⏰ Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not apply a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Additional Safety Advice
Apply this medicine only to the affected skin area and only for the duration prescribed by your doctor. Wash your hands thoroughly before and after application unless your hands are the treated area. Avoid contact with the eyes, mouth, nose, and other mucous membranes. Do not cover the treated area with tight bandages, plastic wraps, or diapers unless your doctor specifically instructs you to do so, because occlusion increases absorption and the risk of side effects. Do not use this medicine on the face, groin, or underarms for more than a few days without medical supervision. Do not share this medicine with others, even if they have similar symptoms. Keep this medicine out of reach of children. If you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before using this medicine. Tell your doctor about all other medicines, creams, or supplements you are using.
👴 Special Considerations for Elderly
💡 For Patients Above 65
Elderly patients may be more susceptible to the side effects of topical corticosteroids, especially skin thinning. Use the lowest effective amount for the shortest duration. Monitor for signs of skin thinning and systemic effects. Consult your doctor for personalized advice.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
If you are planning pregnancy, consult your doctor before using this medicine. Topical terbinafine and clobetasol should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk. Your doctor may recommend alternative treatments.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
If you have recently had surgery, consult your doctor before using this medicine on or near the surgical area. Do not apply to healing wounds unless specifically directed by your doctor.
🦷 Dental Procedures
This medicine is applied to the skin and is not expected to affect dental procedures. However, inform your dentist about all medicines you are using, including topical ones.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
You can continue light exercise, but avoid activities that cause excessive sweating or friction on the treated area until the infection clears. Shower and dry the area thoroughly after exercise. Avoid swimming pools and communal showers if you have an active fungal infection to prevent spreading it to others.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
This medicine is applied to the skin and is unlikely to affect your ability to work or drive. However, if you feel unwell or dizzy, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you feel better. Keep the treated area covered if you are in a dusty or dirty environment, but avoid tight occlusive dressings.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
Stop using this medicine when your doctor advises, or if you experience severe irritation, allergic reaction, or signs of skin thinning. Do not stop early without consulting your doctor, as the fungal infection may return. If you need to stop due to side effects, contact your doctor for alternative treatment.
📅 Long-Term Use Effects
Long-term use of this medicine is not recommended because the corticosteroid component can cause skin thinning, stretch marks, visible blood vessels, acne-like eruptions, and increased hair growth. Prolonged use over large areas can also lead to systemic absorption, which may cause high blood sugar, high blood pressure, and suppression of the body's natural steroid production. Regular monitoring by a doctor is advised if long-term use is unavoidable.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
An antifungal cream without a steroid, suitable for fungal infections without significant inflammation.
Evidence: Well-establishedFor extensive or resistant fungal infections, oral antifungals may be prescribed by a doctor.
Evidence: Well-establishedKeeping skin clean and dry, avoiding sharing personal items, and wearing breathable clothing can help prevent recurrence.
Evidence: Well-established💉 Vaccination Considerations
💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated
No specific interaction between this topical medicine and vaccines is established from the available information. You can receive vaccines as scheduled. Consult your doctor if you have concerns.
📦 Storage Guide
✅ DO
Store at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C.
❌ DON'T
Do not refrigerate unless specified.
✅ DO
Keep the tube tightly closed when not in use.
❌ DON'T
Do not transfer to unmarked containers.
✅ DO
Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture.
❌ DON'T
Do not store in the bathroom cabinet.
✅ DO
Keep out of reach of children.
❌ DON'T
Do not use after the expiry date.
✈️ Traveling with This Medicine
Carry this medicine in its original packaging with the prescription label intact. Bring a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor, especially for international travel. Store it at room temperature and protect it from extreme heat or cold. If you are crossing time zones, continue applying it at your usual times; topical medicines do not require strict time-zone adjustment. Keep it in your carry-on luggage if you need it during the flight. Declare it if required by customs.
💰 Cost Analysis & Savings
👥 Real Patient Stories
Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.
💬 Questions Patients Often Ask
A: Itching and redness may start to improve within a few days. The fungal infection itself may take one to several weeks to clear completely, depending on the type and severity. Complete the full course as prescribed.
A: No, do not use this cream on your face unless your doctor specifically instructs you to do so. The face is more sensitive to steroids, and prolonged use can cause skin thinning and other side effects.
A: Use during pregnancy only if prescribed by your doctor after assessing the benefits and risks. Do not self-medicate.
A: Do not stop early unless your doctor advises it. Stopping too soon may allow the fungal infection to return. Complete the full course as prescribed.
A: If you remember within half the dosing interval, apply the missed dose. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not apply a double dose.
A: This medicine is for fungal infections with inflammation. It is not a standard treatment for eczema unless a fungal infection is also present. Consult your doctor for appropriate treatment.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🛑 Myths vs. Facts
- Myth: This cream can be used for any skin rash.
Fact: This medicine is specifically for inflamed fungal skin infections. Using it for other rashes can worsen the condition or cause side effects. - Myth: More cream means faster healing.
Fact: Applying more than prescribed increases the risk of side effects without improving results. Use a thin layer as directed. - Myth: It is safe to use this cream for months.
Fact: Prolonged use of the steroid component can cause skin thinning, stretch marks, and systemic effects. Use only for the prescribed duration. - Myth: Once the rash disappears, treatment can be stopped immediately.
Fact: Stopping too early may allow the fungal infection to return. Complete the full course as advised by your doctor. - Myth: This cream can be used on the face safely.
Fact: The face is more sensitive to steroids. Do not use on the face unless specifically directed by a doctor.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Terbinafine 1% w/w + Clobetasol propionate 0.05% w/w topical cream (generic versions may be available)