Betamethasone (topical use): Uses, dosage and side effects note

This is an automatically translated article.

The article was written by MSc Pham Thi Kim Dung - Pharmacist - Faculty of Pharmacy - Vinmec Times City International General Hospital
Betamethasone topical is used to treat itchy, irritated, and swollen skin. Betamethasone is indicated in eczema, contact dermatitis and psoriasis.

1. Types of drug use

Lotion (Lotion) Scalp treatments Medicated plasters Medicated plasters Medicated plasters are suitable for moist skin. The ointment form is thick and contains fat excipients, so it is more suitable for drier skin.

2. Dosage of the drug

Cream or ointment form can be applied 1 or 2 times a day depending on the doctor's prescription.
The amount of cream to be applied should be guided by your doctor and pharmacist.
Should use the drug for a short time and stop as soon as the skin has healed. Tell your doctor if your wound does not improve within 2-4 weeks of taking the medicine (for children, after 5 days of taking the medicine).

3. How to apply medicine

Wash hands and dry, then take an appropriate amount of medicine Apply a thin layer of medicine on the skin to be treated by the medicine Spread the thin layer of medicine on the skin in the direction of the growth of the hair layer on the skin Note do not apply cream on an open wound Wash your hands after applying medication, unless the application area is on your hand Apply other creams or products to the skin only 30 minutes after applying the medication.
If dressing is required, wait at least 10 minutes after applying betamethasone.
Topical steroid drugs in general and topical betamethasone in particular should be used strictly according to the doctor's prescription to avoid side effects of the drug. Suitable subjects to use the drug can be given to children from 1 year of age or younger, depending on the doctor's prescription.

4. Note the side effects of the drug

The drug can cause effects such as a stinging, burning sensation for a few minutes right after applying the medicine. The feeling will go away after a few days as you get used to the medication.
If betamethasone is used for a long time, it can thin the skin and cause stretch marks. However, stretch marks will disappear after a while.
The following other side effects should be reported to your doctor immediately:
Red and swollen skin, discharge, and new signs of infection. Lighter or darker skin in the area where the medicine was applied. In the treatment of psoriasis, if after applying the skin, there are pus-filled blisters. Abdominal pain and vomiting, dizziness, muscle weakness... Hyperglycemia occurs: hunger and thirst, drowsiness, breathing faster than usual. If there are problems with reduced vision or other problems.

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Articles refer to the source: nhs.uk, patient.info