sterk gel - Clobetasol (0.05% w/w) + Salicylic Acid (3% w/w) medicine

Lozivate-MF Ointment: A Comprehensive Guide

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🏭 Solace Biotech Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Sep 25, 2026
🤰 Pregnancy Category Not established from the available information. Use only if clearly needed and as advised by your doctor. 📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Well-established for approved indications.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Sep 25, 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Severe burning, blistering, or peeling of the skin.
  • Signs of a skin infection such as pus, increased pain, or spreading redness.
  • Symptoms of adrenal suppression like extreme fatigue, weakness, nausea, or low blood pressure.
  • Rapid weight gain, round face, or easy bruising (signs of Cushing's syndrome).
  • Allergic reaction with swelling of the face, lips, or throat, or difficulty breathing.
  • Vision problems or eye pain if the medicine accidentally gets into the eyes.

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is sterk gel used for?

This medicine is a topical ointment containing clobetasol 0.05% and salicylic acid 3%. It is used to treat thick, scaly skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema by reducing inflammation and peeling away scales.

  • Generic Name: Clobetasol (0.05% w/w) + Salicylic Acid (3% w/w)
  • Manufacturer: Solace Biotech Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 sterk gel के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा एक टॉपिकल ऑइंटमेंट है जिसमें क्लोबेटासोल 0.05% और सैलिसिलिक एसिड 3% होता है। इसका उपयोग सोरायसिस, एक्जिमा और त्वचा की अन्य मोटी, पपड़ीदार समस्याओं के इलाज के लिए किया जाता है। यह सूजन और खुजली को कम करता है और त्वचा की पपड़ी को हटाने में मदद करता है।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में जलन, खुजली, सूखापन और लालिमा शामिल हैं। लंबे समय तक उपयोग से त्वचा पतली हो सकती है, खिंचाव के निशान पड़ सकते हैं और रक्त वाहिकाएं दिखाई दे सकती हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं लेकिन इनमें एड्रेनल सप्रेशन और त्वचा संक्रमण शामिल हो सकते हैं।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को केवल डॉक्टर के निर्देशानुसार ही लगाएं। इसे चेहरे, जांघों या बगलों पर बिना डॉक्टर की सलाह के न लगाएं। आंखों, मुंह और नाक से बचाएं। गर्भवती या स्तनपान कराने वाली महिलाएं डॉक्टर से सलाह लें। बच्चों पर बिना डॉक्टर की सलाह के उपयोग न करें। दवा को बच्चों की पहुंच से दूर रखें।

💡 Did You Know? India has the highest number of USFDA-compliant plants outside the USA.

💊 sterk gel Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Plaque psoriasis","description":"Helps reduce inflammation, scaling, and thickness of psoriatic plaques.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Chronic eczema","description":"Provides relief from itching, redness, and scaling in thickened eczematous skin.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Lichen simplex chronicus","description":"Reduces inflammation and breaks the itch-scratch cycle in thickened, leathery skin.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Seborrheic dermatitis","description":"May be used for short-term treatment of thick, scaly lesions on the scalp and body.","evidence":"Moderate"},{"condition":"Discoid lupus erythematosus","description":"Can help reduce inflammation and scaling in localized skin lesions.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Alopecia areata","description":"Sometimes used off-label to reduce inflammation in patchy hair loss, but evidence is limited.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Vitiligo","description":"May be used off-label in combination with other treatments to repigment skin patches.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Plaque psoriasis

Also treats: Chronic eczema, Lichen simplex chronicus, Seborrheic dermatitis, Discoid lupus erythematosus

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Clobetasol (0.05% w/w) + Salicylic Acid (3% w/w)
Brand Namesterk gel
ManufacturerSolace Biotech Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassDERMA
Action Class
Route of AdministrationTopical
StorageStore at room temperature (15-30°C). Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture. Do not freeze.
Shelf Life24 months from the date of manufacture.
WHO GuidelineNot established from the available information.
ICMR GuidelineNot established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Apply a thin film only to the affected area and rub it in gently.
2
Do not use this medicine for more than 2 weeks without consulting your doctor.
3
Avoid using on the face, groin, or underarms unless specifically directed.
4
If you are using other topical products, apply them at different times to avoid irritation.
5
Report any signs of skin thinning, stretch marks, or infection to your doctor promptly.
6
Use a gentle moisturizer if your skin becomes dry, but avoid applying it immediately after this medicine.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
Thick, scaly skin patches
This medicine is commonly prescribed for this.
Likely Use
✅
Itching and redness
This medicine can help reduce these symptoms.
Likely Use
❌
Fever
This medicine is not a fever reducer.
Not Primary
❌
Skin infection with pus
This medicine should not be used on infected skin without treatment.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionClobetasol is absorbed through the skin. The extent of absorption depends on the area treated, the condition of the skin, and whether an occlusive dressing is used. Salicylic acid can also be absorbed through the skin, especially if applied to large areas or broken skin.
DistributionOnce absorbed, clobetasol is distributed throughout the body, but it is highly protein-bound in plasma. Salicylic acid distributes into body fluids and tissues.
Protein BindingClobetasol is approximately 90% bound to plasma proteins. Salicylic acid is about 80-90% bound to albumin.
MetabolismClobetasol is metabolized in the liver, primarily by cytochrome P450 enzymes. Salicylic acid is metabolized in the liver by conjugation with glycine to form salicyluric acid and by other pathways.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of clobetasol is not well established but is estimated to be a few hours. Salicylic acid has a half-life of about 2 to 3 hours at low doses, but this can increase at high doses.
ExcretionClobetasol and its metabolites are excreted mainly in the urine and feces. Salicylic acid metabolites are excreted in the urine.
BioavailabilityNot established from the available information for the topical ointment.
Onset of ActionImprovement in itching and inflammation may be noticed within a few days of starting treatment.
Peak Plasma TimeNot established from the available information.
Duration of ActionThe anti-inflammatory effect lasts for several hours after application, but the clinical effect builds over days of consistent use.

How It Works

This medicine combines a super-potent corticosteroid with a keratolytic agent. Clobetasol binds to glucocorticoid receptors in the skin cells, leading to suppression of inflammatory mediators and immune responses. Salicylic acid works by dissolving the intercellular cement that holds dead skin cells together, which softens and peels away scales, allowing the steroid to penetrate more effectively.

Mechanism Steps

1
Binding to glucocorticoid receptor: Clobetasol enters skin cells and binds to the glucocorticoid receptor in the cytoplasm.
2
Translocation and gene regulation: The drug-receptor complex moves into the nucleus and alters the transcription of genes involved in inflammation.
3
Suppression of inflammatory mediators: This leads to reduced production of cytokines, prostaglandins, and leukotrienes, decreasing redness, swelling, and itching.
4
Keratolysis by salicylic acid: Salicylic acid disrupts the bonds between corneocytes, causing the outer layer of dead skin to shed.
5
Enhanced penetration: The removal of scales allows clobetasol to reach deeper layers of the skin more effectively.

💡 How to Take sterk gel

Strength: Ointment containing Clobetasol 0.05% w/w and Salicylic Acid 3% w/w.

1Wash and dry the affected area gently.
2Apply a thin film of the ointment to the affected skin.
3Rub it in gently until it disappears.
4Wash your hands after applying, unless your hands are the treated area.
5Do not cover the area with bandages or dressings unless instructed.
6Use only as directed by your doctor.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageApply a thin film of this medicine to the affected area once or twice daily, or as directed by your doctor. The frequency and duration of treatment depend on the condition being treated and your response to therapy. Do not use for more than 2 consecutive weeks without medical advice. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, and skin condition.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may be more susceptible to the side effects of topical corticosteroids, such as skin thinning. Use with caution and for the shortest duration necessary.
Renal ImpairmentNo specific dose adjustment is established for topical use. Use with caution in patients with severe kidney disease.
Hepatic ImpairmentNo specific dose adjustment is established for topical use. Use with caution in patients with severe liver disease.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum daily dose depends on the area treated and the condition. Generally, do not exceed 50 grams per week of the ointment without medical supervision.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not apply a double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of sterk gel

✅ Common Side Effects

Burning or stinging at application site (Common (5-10%))
Usually resolves on its own. If it persists or worsens, consult your doctor.
Itching (Common (5-10%))
May be due to the medicine or the underlying condition. Consult your doctor if severe.
Dryness or peeling of skin (Common (5-10%))
Use a gentle moisturizer if advised by your doctor. Do not stop the medicine without consulting.
Redness or irritation (Common (5-10%))
If it worsens, contact your doctor. Avoid applying to sensitive areas.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Skin thinning (atrophy) (Uncommon (0.1-1%))
Stop using and consult your doctor if you notice skin becoming thin, shiny, or easily bruised.
Stretch marks (striae) (Uncommon (0.1-1%))
Report to your doctor if you notice new stretch marks. They may be permanent.
Adrenal suppression (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek medical advice if you experience fatigue, weakness, nausea, or low blood pressure.
Secondary skin infection (Rare (<0.1%))
Consult a doctor if you see pus, increased pain, or spreading redness.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Cushing's syndrome
Seek medical attention if you develop a round face, weight gain, or easy bruising.
Hyperglycemia
Monitor blood sugar if you are diabetic. Report unusual thirst or frequent urination.
Allergic contact dermatitis
Stop using and seek medical help if you develop a severe rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Other topical corticosteroids Major
CYP3A4 inhibitors Major
Methotrexate Moderate
Warfarin Moderate
Topical retinoids Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Other topical corticosteroids
  • CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, ritonavir)

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Methotrexate
  • Warfarin

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

No specific interaction is established between this topical medicine and alcohol. However, alcohol may worsen certain skin conditions like psoriasis, so moderation is advised.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Hypersensitivity to clobetasol, salicylic acid, or any component of the formulation.","Untreated bacterial, viral, or fungal skin infections.","Rosacea.","Perioral dermatitis.","Acne vulgaris.","Use on the face, groin, or axillae unless directed by a doctor.","Use in children under 12 years for most indications."]

⚠️ 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.","Do not use for longer than prescribed, as prolonged use increases risk of side effects.","Do not use under occlusive dressings unless instructed by a doctor.","If irritation or sensitization occurs, stop use and consult a doctor.","Use with caution in patients with impaired liver or kidney function.","Do not use in children without a doctor's advice.","Keep out of reach of children."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

It is not known whether this medicine passes into breast milk. To be safe, do not apply to the breast area, and consult your doctor before use while breastfeeding.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose from topical application is unlikely. If accidental ingestion occurs, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain due to salicylic acid. Prolonged excessive topical use can lead to systemic steroid effects. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive.

⏰ 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

General Safety

Apply this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use it more often or for longer than recommended. Avoid applying it to the face, groin, or underarms unless your doctor specifically tells you to. Do not cover the treated area with bandages or dressings unless instructed. Wash your hands thoroughly after applying, unless your hands are the treated area. Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, and nose. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, inform your doctor before using this medicine. Do not use this medicine on children without a doctor's advice. Keep this medicine out of reach of children. Do not use it for any condition other than the one it was prescribed for.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients are more prone to skin thinning and other side effects of topical corticosteroids. Use the lowest effective amount for the shortest duration. Monitor for signs of skin atrophy and systemic effects.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before using this medicine. It should be used only if clearly needed and under medical supervision.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

Do not apply this medicine to surgical wounds or broken skin unless specifically directed by your doctor. It may interfere with wound healing and increase the risk of infection.

🦷 Dental Procedures

No specific considerations for dental procedures. However, inform your dentist if you are using this medicine, especially if you have any skin conditions around the mouth.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Keep your skin well moisturized with a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer.
🥗
Avoid scratching or picking at the affected areas to prevent worsening.
😴
Take lukewarm baths or showers instead of hot water.
💧
Wear soft, breathable fabrics to reduce irritation.
🧘
Manage stress as it can trigger flare-ups of skin conditions.
🌞
Avoid known triggers such as certain soaps, detergents, or allergens.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

No specific exercise restrictions are required while using this medicine. However, if you have skin lesions, avoid activities that cause excessive friction or sweating on the affected areas. Consult your doctor if exercise worsens your condition.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
Include omega-3 fatty acids from fish or flaxseed to help reduce inflammation.
Limit processed foods, sugar, and alcohol as they may worsen skin inflammation.
Stay well hydrated to keep your skin healthy.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine is applied topically and is unlikely to affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you experience any dizziness or unusual symptoms, avoid these activities until you feel better. It should not interfere with your daily work routine.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Stop using this medicine after the prescribed duration or when your doctor tells you to. Do not stop abruptly if you have been using it for a long time without consulting your doctor, as this can cause a flare-up. If you experience severe side effects, stop and seek medical advice immediately.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine can lead to skin thinning, stretch marks, visible blood vessels, and increased risk of infections. It can also cause systemic effects like adrenal suppression if used over large areas or for prolonged periods. Regular monitoring by a doctor is recommended if long-term use is necessary.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Moisturizers and emollients

Can help soften scales and soothe dry skin.

Evidence: Well-established
Phototherapy

Controlled exposure to ultraviolet light can help treat psoriasis and eczema.

Evidence: Well-established
Coal tar preparations

Can reduce scaling and inflammation in psoriasis.

Evidence: Moderate

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

No specific interactions with vaccines are established for this topical medicine. However, if you are using it over large areas or for a long time, consult your doctor before receiving live vaccines.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (15-30°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate unless specified

✅ DO

Keep in original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep away from direct sunlight

❌ DON'T

Do not store in bathroom cabinet

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

Carry this medicine in its original packaging with the prescription label intact. Bring a copy of your prescription in case you need to show it at customs. Store it at room temperature and protect it from extreme heat or cold. If you are traveling across time zones, continue applying it as per your usual schedule. Do not leave it in a hot car or in direct sunlight.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 45-year-old man with chronic plaque psoriasis on his elbows and knees.
He was prescribed this medicine to apply twice daily. After one week, the thick scales softened, and the redness decreased significantly. He was advised to stop after two weeks and use a moisturizer. He learned that consistent application and not exceeding the duration were key.
💡 Lesson: Using this medicine as directed for a limited time can effectively reduce scaling and inflammation without causing side effects.
👤 A 60-year-old woman with lichen simplex chronicus on her ankle.
She had been using this medicine for several weeks without improvement because she applied it only once a day and often forgot. After her doctor explained the importance of regular application, she used it twice daily for two weeks and noticed marked improvement in itching and skin thickness.
💡 Lesson: Adherence to the prescribed frequency and duration is crucial for the medicine to work effectively.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: You may notice improvement in itching and redness within a few days. Scaling usually decreases after about a week of regular use.

Q: Can I use this medicine on my face?

A: No, unless your doctor specifically tells you to. It can cause skin thinning and other side effects on sensitive areas.

Q: Is it safe to use during pregnancy?

A: Consult your doctor before use. It should only be used if clearly needed and as advised.

Q: What should I do if I accidentally swallow it?

A: Seek immediate medical attention. It is for external use only.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I use this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my skin permanently?
  • Can I use it on my face?
  • Is it safe for children?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I use it with other skin products?

🔄 Substitutes for sterk gel

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: This medicine can be used on any skin rash.
    Fact: This medicine is a super-potent steroid and should only be used for specific conditions as prescribed by a doctor.
  • Myth: More ointment means faster healing.
    Fact: Using more than prescribed increases the risk of side effects without speeding up healing.
  • Myth: It is safe to use this medicine for a long time.
    Fact: Prolonged use can cause skin thinning, stretch marks, and other serious side effects.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Clobetasol and salicylic acid ointment (generic)

Brand Alternatives

  • Lozivate-MF Ointment

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Clobetasol + Salicylic Acid","strength":"0.05% + 3%","form":"Ointment","class":"Super-potent corticosteroid + keratolytic","use":"Thick, scaly skin conditions"},{"medicine":"Clobetasol alone","strength":"0.05%","form":"Ointment","class":"Super-potent corticosteroid","use":"Inflammatory skin conditions without thick scaling"},{"medicine":"Betamethasone + Salicylic Acid","strength":"0.05% + 3%","form":"Ointment","class":"Potent corticosteroid + keratolytic","use":"Mild to moderate scaly skin conditions"}]

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