Betamethasone
TOPICAL STEROIDUses of Betamethasone
- Betamethasone is used to help relieve redness, itching, swelling, or other discomforts caused by certain skin conditions.
- It is a corticosteroid that acts as an immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory agent in various conditions, including skin diseases such as dermatitis and psoriasis.
- Additionally, it can be used in the treatment of several autoimmune disorders, including rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and Crohn’s disease.
- Betamethasone is also indicated for various allergic conditions, such as asthma, and in some forms of leukemia. Furthermore, it is used in pregnant women at risk of preterm delivery to aid foetal lung maturation.
Side effects of Betamethasone
- Itching, redness, and burning at the site of the application
- Muscle weakness
- Increased risk of infections or flaring up of existing infections
- Prolonged use can potentially cause Adrenal insufficiency and Psychiatric symptoms.
How Betamethasone works
- Betamethasone is a corticosteroid (glucocorticoid)
- It is a glucocorticoid receptor agonist that controls the rate of protein synthesis by which it inhibits the formation and migration of pro-inflammatory molecules and promotes anti-inflammatory activity, thereby leading to reduced inflammation.
Certified content
Written By
B. Pharm
Reviewed By
B. Pharm, MSc.
Expert Advice
Dosage Forms Available
- Betamethasone is available for use via oral (tablet, capsule), parenteral (i/v, i/m), and topical (cream, lotion, gel) routes.
Age And Dose Restrictions
- It can be used in both adults and children with appropriate dose calculation.
Contraindications
- It is contraindicated in patients allergic to betamethasone.
Medications To Avoid With This Drug
- It is advisable to inform your doctor regarding all the medications that you are taking so that he/she can decide regarding the use of Betamethasone or its dose adjustment if needed.
Overdose And Missed Dose
- If a dose is missed, it should be taken if there is a time gap from the subsequent dose. If not, then a routine dosing regimen should be followed.
- Chronic high doses of betamethasone can cause cataracts, glaucoma, hypertension, water retention, hyperlipidemia, mood changes etc. It is important to inform your doctor regarding these effects who will taper the dose of betamethasone and initiate a symptomatic treatment.
Use In Driving And Operating Machinery
- It is unlikely to impair the mental alertness or coordination required while driving.
Use In Pregnancy And Lactation
- Betamethasone use during pregnancy and lactation is permissible but requires caution.
Caution In Other Conditions
- Caution is advised for use of Betamethasone in patients with kidney or liver disease.
Special Dietary And Lifestyle Recommendation
- Alcohol consumption should be avoided when using betamethasone.
- Betamethasone should not be stopped abruptly. Its dose is gradually tapered before stopping it.
- Patients who are on a longer duration of treatment with betamethasone should have restrictions on sodium and potassium intake. Also, patients suffering from cholesterol problems need to monitor their lipid levels closely.
Frequently asked questions
1. Is betamethasone safe to be used in pregnancy?
Yes. However, take the advice of a doctor before using betamethasone in pregnancy.
2. In how much time does topical betamethasone take to work?
Topical betamethasone takes 3 to 4 days to show their action.
3. Is betamethasone safe for breastfeeding mothers?
Yes. However, take the advice of a doctor before using betamethasone while breastfeeding.
4. What precautions and warnings should I take while applying betamethasone?
The precautions and warnings to be followed while taking betamethasone are; Do not use Betamethasone if you are allergic to it, Be careful when applying it around the eyes, and rinse your eyes with water if it accidentally enters your eyes, Be cautious about the use of betamethasone in children as their skin is softer and may need dose adjustment.
5. Should I stop applying the betamethasone when I feel healthy?
No. Betamethasone should not be stopped before completion of the prescribed duration as it can precipitate withdrawal symptoms.
Betamethasone in other salts
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