Betamethasone (topical)

About topical betamethasone

Betamethasone is a potent topical corticosteroid which works by being absorbed into the skin cells and stopping these cells from producing chemicals which cause inflammation. This reduces the symptoms of swelling, itching and redness that are associated with inflammatory skin conditions.

Topical means that is applied onto the skin or scalp.

Betamethasone may also be combined with an antibacterial agent (such as clioquinol, neomycin or fusidic acid) or with an antifungal agent (such as clotrimazole) for short-term use in infected eczema.

Before using topical betamethasone

Before using topical betamethasone make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you have any areas of infected skin.
• If you suffer from acne rosacea.
• If you suffer from perioral dermatitis (skin rash around the mouth).
• If you suffer from widespread plaque psoriasis (large areas of raised, inflamed, red lesions covered by a silvery white scale).

How to use topical betamethasone

• Apply as directed by your doctor, usually not more than twice daily.
• Spread the cream or ointment thinly, using the specified number of fingertip units.
• A fingertip unit is the amount of topical steroid that is squeezed out from a standard tube along an adults fingertip.
• If you are using betamethasone with an antibacterial or antifungal agent for infected eczema, use it regularly twice daily for a week only, unless you have been directed otherwise by your doctor.
• If you are using the lotion: rub the smallest amount needed to cover the area into the skin.
• If you are using the scalp application or mousse: onto your dry hair, apply enough liquid or mousse to cover the area. Rub this in gently and allow it to dry naturally.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Do not apply betamethasone to the face or skin flexures (inside of elbows, backs of knees) unless directed to by your doctor.
• The use of betamethasone in psoriasis may cause relapse or pustular psoriasis (psoriasis with clearly defined, raised bumps on the skin that are filled with pus) - if this happens, stop using the preparation and contact your doctor immediately.
• If you are using betamethasone in children, limit the treatment to 5 - 7 days only.
• Long-term use is generally discouraged. If you see no improvement after two weeks, see your doctor again.
• Do not cover the area treated with betamethasone unless directed to by your doctor.
• If you are using betamethasone with clioquinol (Betnovate® C) be careful not to let the preparation come into contact with your clothing as it may stain.

Can topical betamethasone cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Sometimes the absorption of potent corticosteroids (such as betamethasone) through the skin can cause adrenal suppression and Cushing's syndrome. This is generally only when the treatment is carried out on a large surface area for a long time. Signs of adrenal suppression include stomach pain, weight loss, feeling or being sick, and tiredness.

In addition, you may notice changes in hair growth as a result of repeated courses of topical steroids over a long time. Stretch marks may also develop.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store topical betamethasone

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines