'Skin-Cap' may cause harm; users should call doctor

FDA Consumer, Nov-Dec, 1997

Consumers using a treatment for dandruff or psoriasis called "Skin-Cap" should immediately call their health-care providers, FDA has warned, as the product contains prescription-strength corticosteroids, which may pose a health hazard, and stopping use abruptly may convert common psoriasis to a more serious, even life-threatening form. FDA analysis shows that Skin-Cap contains a potent topical steroid, clobetasol propionate, which can cause potentially harmful side effects such as stretch marks, thinning skin, and dilution of tiny blood vessels. Use of this drug in large amounts or long-term, can cause high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, hairiness, acne, osteoporosis, impaired wound healing, decreased resistance to infection, muscular wasting, and behavioral changes such as mania and psychosis. The drug can also suppress the body's ability to produce its own corticosteroids for fighting infection or dealing with body trauma.

Skin-Cap is imported from Spain and is marketed as a nonprescription spray, shampoo and cream for dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, and other skin disorders. FDA issued an import alert in August for detention of Skin-Cap at all border entries, and the state of Florida stopped distribution of Skin-Cap from the product's primary distributor.

Consumers can call the National Psoriasis Foundation toll-free at 1-800-723-9166 for more information.