Betamethasone Topical Description

Generic Name: BETAMETHASONE TOPICAL

Pronunciation: (bay ta meth' a sone)

Trade Name(s): Dipnate, Diprovate G, Diprovate-MF, Lupiderm-G, Topicasone, Valbet Scalp

Why it is prescribed: Detamethasone is used to treat the itching, redness, dryness, scaling, inflammation, and discomfort of various skin conditions, including skin problems caused by allergies.

When it is to be taken: Betamethasone is applied one to four times a day. Follow the instructions on your prescription label carefully.

How it should be taken:
1. Betamethasone comes in the form of ointment, cream, gel, lotion, and aerosol spray.
2. They come in various strengths for use on the skin.
3. The aerosol and lotion should be shaken thoroughly before each use.
4. Wash the affected area thoroughly, then apply the ointment, cream, gel or lotion sparingly in a thin film and rub it in gently. However, if washing irritates your skin, apply the drug without washing.
5. Spray an area about the size of your hand with the aerosol from a distance of about 6 inches for no longer than three seconds.
6. Avoid breathing the vapors from the spray. Repeat until the entire area is treated.
7. If your doctor instructs you to wrap the treated area with plastic, soak or wash the area thoroughly. Apply the medication in a thin film and rub it in gently. Then apply another thin film. Cover the area with thin plastic wrap and attach the plastic with adhesive tape to normal skin adjacent to the treated area or hold the plastic in place with an elastic or gauze bandage. Wash the area each time you apply the medication.
8. If the area is moist, you can leave the edges of the plastic wrap partly unsealed or puncture the plastic wrap to allow excess moisture to escape. If your skin is dry, you can soak the area briefly before applying the medication and place a damp cloth on the area before covering it with plastic.
9. If the treated area is the scalp, fingers, or hands, you can use a tight plastic shower cap for your scalp and gloves for your fingers and hands rather than plastic wrap. Ask your doctor for specific instructions.
10. If you use this drug on your face, keep it out of your eyes.

Special Instruction:
1. Use betamethasone exactly as prescribed.
2. Do not apply it to other areas of your body or wrap or bandage the treated area unless directed to do so by your doctor.
3. Do not use it for a longer time than as directed by your doctor.
4. Do not apply it more frequently than as stated on the prescription label.
5. If you are using this medication on a child's diaper area, do not place tightly fitting diapers or plastic pants on the child. They can increase the absorption of betamethasone through the skin, which can decrease growth.
6. Do not apply cosmetics, lotions, or other skin preparations to the treated area without consulting your doctor.
7. If your skin problem continues or worsens or if the treated area gets infected or oozes pus, contact your doctor.

Side Effects: Drying, cracking, or tightening of skin, acne, skin sores, itching, burning, stinging, irritation, increased hair growth, change in skin color and skin infection can rarely occur. Contact your doctor.

Other Precautions:
1. If you have an infection, tell your doctor before using this medication.
2. Pregnant women should inform their doctor before using betamethasone.
3. Discard any unused medication after your treatment course is completed.
4. Do not use it to treat other skin problems.
5. Do not allow anyone else to use this medication, especially children.
6.Children are more sensitive to this drug than are adults.

Storage Conditions: Keep this medication out of the reach of children. Store it according to package instructions.