Steroid-containing products applied to the skin can cause thinning of the skin and dilation of tiny blood vessels, resulting in permanent scarring, stretch marks, and secondary infections. Using clobetasol in large amounts or over a long period of time can cause the more serious side effects that are associated with use of steroid hormones. These include high blood pressure, diabetes, hairiness, acne, osteoporosis, weakening of bones, impaired wound healing, decreased resistance to infection, muscular wasting and behavioural changes such as mania and psychosis. More important, misuse of clobetasol or other steroid-containing products can suppress the body's ability to produce its own corticosteroids which are needed to fight infection or deal with traumatic injury. These products should also be used with caution on lesions close to the eye because they may cause increased intra-ocular pressure, glaucoma or cataracts.
Children are at a greater risk than adults when treated with steroid-containing creams.
The public is advised to discuss with their health care provider the disposal or the return of the product to the company in Canada. Health Canada is issuing this warning to advise consumers, the Canadian Medical Association, the Canadian Dermatological Association, the Canadian Psoriasis Foundation, and the provincial ministries of health. Health Canada has also issued a nationwide import alert for detention of Miralex Cream at all border entry points. Safety Alerts compiles comprehensive safety recall information for the United States. SafeMail is a free email service to warn consumers of faulty products and contaminated foods.