Betamethasone Dipropionate, Topical

Corticosteroid, Plain · Corticosteroid

Indications

Psoriasis, lichen simplex and planus, eczema, otitis externa, prurigo, seborrhoeic dermatitis and contact dermatitis. Steroid responsive dermatoses of the scalp, severe dandruff.

Dosage

Adults & Children: Apply sparingly two or three times daily.

Adverse Effects

Burning, itching, irritation, erythema, dryness, folliculitis, hypertrichosis, pruritus, acneiform eruptions, hypo-pigmentation, peri-oral dermatitis, allergic contact dermatitis, numbness of fingers, stinging and cracking/tightening of skin, maceration of the skin, secondary infection, skin atrophy, striae, malaria, telangiectasia, cushingoid changes, adrenal suppression, local skin reactions, acne, folliculitis. Hypersensitivity reactions incl contact dermatitis (discontinue).

Risk Factor (Pregnancy/Lactation)

Contraindications: Monotherapy in primary bacterial infections such as impetigo, paronychia, erysipelas, cellulitis, angular cheilitis, erythrasma, treatment of rosacea, peri-oral dermatitis or acne; use on face, groin or axilla (very high or high potency agents). Untreated fungal or viral infections or parasitic infestations, use on burns, acne or rosacea, perioral dermatitis, widespread plaque psoriasis, perianal or genital pruritus, pruritus without inflammation. Precautions: Systemic effects usually results from use of more potent steroids, use over large surface area and the addition of occlusive dressings. If local irritation develops discontinue use. Skin atrophy may be clinically significant after prolong use of potent steroids or use on areas with higher percutaneous absorption. Do not use steroid as sole therapy in psoriasis. Do not use potent steroids to treat diaper…

Advice to Patient

Apply as advised by prescriber. For external use only. Wash and dry area gently before application. Apply a thin layer of medication over affected areas. May be rubbed lightly. If there is need, apply light dressing to the affected area after applying medication. Contact prescriber if there is worsening of condition, no improvement in condition or swelling, irritation, redness, infection signs or open sores. Avoid using occlusive dressing unless recommended by prescriber. Do not use for long time around genital, rectal areas and sensitive tissues. Exposure of affected area to direct sunlight must be avoided. Avoid contact with eyes, mucous membranes or open wounds.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: It ranges from about 1% in areas with a thick stratum corneum to as high as 36% in areas with a thin stratum corneum. Absorption increases in areas of skin damage, inflammation, or occlusion. Some systemic absorption of topical steroids occurs. Metabolism: After topical administration, drug is metabolized primarily in skin. The small amount absorbed into systemic circulation is metabolized hepatically. Excretion: Renal (inactive metabolites). Faeces (small amounts of metabolites).

Compiled by Healify Pharmacy from published drug references. How we compile it →

Always consult a pharmacist or doctor.