A GP would like to prescribe a moderate-potency corticosteroid but cannot recall a corticosteroid cream of this potency. Which would be suitable to recommend?

• A. Betamethasone valerate 0.025%
• B. Clobetasone butyrate 0.05% (Eumovate)
• C. Hydrocortisone 1.0%
• D. Mometasone furoate 0.1%

Answer: (B)

Understanding topical corticosteroid potency helps you match the strength to the disease severity. Clobetasone butyrate 0.05% is considered a moderate-potency preparation, giving good anti-inflammatory effect for common eczema and dermatitis while keeping local skin thinning and systemic absorption risks lower than higher-potency steroids. Hydrocortisone 1% is a low-potency option, suitable for milder cases or very sensitive areas, not for moderate flares. Mometasone furoate 0.1% and betamethasone valerate 0.025% are generally viewed as higher-potency choices, with greater risk of side effects with longer use. Therefore, clobetasone butyrate 0.05% is the most appropriate pick for a moderate-potency prescription.