Comparison Of Efficacy, Safety And Compliance Of Topical Clobetasol Propionate With Topical Calcipotriol In Chronic Psoriasis – A Prospective Double-Blind Study

Introduction- Psoriasis is a chronic, immune-mediated skin disorder characterized by epidermal hyperproliferation and dermal inflammation. Topical corticosteroids, particularly Clobetasol propionate, have long served as the cornerstone of first-line therapy, either as monotherapy or in combination. But prolonged use is associated with several adverse effects. Vitamin D₃ analogues such as Calcipotriol (Calcipotriene), Tacalcitol, Maxacalcitol, and Calcitriol have emerged as effective alternatives. Among these, Calcipotriol remains one of the most frequently prescribed topical agents for plaque psoriasis due to its efficacy and safety profile. Aim - To evaluate the efficacy and safety of topical Clobetasol propionate with topical Calcipotriol in the patients with chronic psoriasis. Methods: A prospective, randomized, double-blind clinical trial was conducted on 100 patients aged 18–60 years with chronic plaque psoriasis. Participants were randomized to receive either clobetasol propionate 0.05% cream (Group B) or calcipotriol 50 µg/g ointment (Group A) once daily for 12 weeks. Efficacy was assessed using Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) and Physician Global Assessment (PGA) scores at baseline and follow-ups. Safety and compliance were evaluated through adverse event monitoring and tube weight measurements. Results: Both groups showed significant improvement in PASI and PGA scores over 12 weeks. Group B (clobetasol) demonstrated a more rapid decline in scores during initial follow-ups, while final mean PGA and PASI scores were comparable between the two groups (P > 0.05). Adverse events were minimal, with higher local irritation in the calcipotriol group but no serious adverse effects in either group. Compliance was good in both arms. Conclusion: Clobetasol propionate and calcipotriol are both effective and well-tolerated in the treatment of chronic plaque psoriasis with no relapse or reoccurrence at the end of the study. Subjects have shown equal compliance to both the drugs. Topical Clobetasol propionate 0.05% is more cost-effective option than topical Calcipotriol 50μg.