Before using betamethasone preparations for the eye, ear or nose

Before using betamethasone preparations for the eye, ear or nose, make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you have glaucoma (raised pressure in the eye).
• If you have any infection in the area where it will be used.
• If you wear contact lenses and this treatment is for use in your eyes.
• If you are taking or using other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.

How to use betamethasone preparations for the eye, ear or nose

Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.

EYE DROPS:

1. Wash your hands well before use
2. Remove the outer cap
3. Pull the lower lid of the affected eye down to form a pocket
4. Hold the container between your thumb and middle finger of the other hand; turn the container upside down near to the eye but try not to touch the eye
5. Apply enough pressure to the container to release one to two drops
6. Close your eye and keep it closed for one to two minutes pressing gently on the side of your nose where the corner of your eye meets your nose
7. Repeat in the other eye if you have been asked to use this preparation in both eyes
8. Replace the outer cap on the container, trying not to touch the applicator tip with your fingers as you do so
9. Wash your hands

EYE OINTMENT:

1. Wash your hands well before use
2. Remove the outer cap
3. Pull the lower lid of your eye down to form a pocket
4. Hold the container between the thumb and middle finger of the other hand; hold the container upside down near to the eye but try not to touch the eye
5. Apply enough pressure to the container to release a thin line of ointment along the inside of the lower eye lid. Try not to touch your eye as you do this
6. Blink a few times to spread the ointment around the inside of your eye
7. Repeat in the other eye if you have been asked to use the ointment in both eyes
8. Replace the outer cap on the container, trying not to touch the applicator tip with your fingers as you do so

EAR DROPS:
If you find it more comfortable, you may warm the ear drops by holding the container in your hand for a few minutes before administering.

1. Wash your hands well before use
2. Clean your ear with warm water and pat it dry
3. Remove the outer cap
4. Lie down or tilt your head so that the affected ear is facing upwards
5. Gently pull your earlobe to straighten the ear canal
6. Hold the container between your thumb and middle finger of the other hand; turn the container upside down near to the ear but try not to touch the inside of the ear
7. Apply enough pressure to the container to release two to three drops
8. Keep the ear facing upwards for a few minutes to allow the solution to come into contact with the affected area
9. Repeat in the other ear if you have been asked to use the drops in both ears
10. Replace the outer cap on the container
11. Wash your hands

NOSE DROPS:

1. Wash your hands well before use
2. Remove the outer cap
3. Tilt your head back. You may find it easier to rest your head on the back of a chair or the side of a bed
4. Turn the container upside down near to your nostril but try not to touch the inside of the nose
5. Apply enough pressure to the container to release 2-3 drops into the nostril
6. Repeat in the other nostril if you have been asked to use the drops in both nostrils
7. Keep your head tilted back for a short while to allow the drops to run down into your nose, and sniff gently
8. Replace the outer cap on the container
9. Wash your hands

Getting the most from your treatment

• Betamethasone preparations are only intended for short-term use. It is important only to use this preparation for as long as it is needed.
• If you are using any other eye, ear or nose drops or ointments, leave at least five minutes between applying each preparation.
• Try not to miss doses. If you do miss a dose, then apply the missed dose as soon as you remember.
• If your symptoms do not improve within 7 days or if they become worse, stop using this preparation and check with your doctor.
• Do not use this preparation more often, or for a longer period than your doctor has directed.

Can betamethasone drops for the eye, ear and nose cause problems?

Along with their useful effects, all medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.

How to store betamethasone preparations for the eye, ear or nose

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
• If there is any preparation left in the container after you have finished your course of treatment, do not keep it. These preparations must not be used if the container has been opened for longer than four weeks.

Important information about all medicines

References

• Manufacturer's PIL, Betnesol® Eye, Ear & Nose Drops, UCB Pharma Limited, electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated October 2005, accessed February 2010.
• Manufacturer's PIL, Betnesol® Eye Ointment, UCB Pharma Limited, electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated January 2009, accessed February 2010.
• British National Formulary; 58th Edition (September 2009) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London.