Using Clobetasol Topical Steroid for Scalp Itch

DR.
Recently you suggested that a patient sufferring from scalp itch caused by minoxidil should be cautious about using topical steroids to relieve the itching sensation. I have been prescribed the topical steroid clobetesol to relieve itching I have suffered from the same symptoms, what are the potetial negative side effects that I should be concerned about? Thanks.

Chronic use of steroids can cause hair loss and if the steroids are in high enough quantity and taken long enough, it can, of course, impact the adrenal glands. This is why potent corticosteroids like clobetasol should not be used for extended periods of time (no longer than 2 weeks is recommended in most cases).

Interestingly, excessive hair growth is reported as a possible rare side effect from clobetasol (depending on the variation used), but itchy and dry skin seems to be common. The list can be found here.