Betnovate N Cream

Composition of Betnovate N Cream

Betnovate N Cream contains Betamethasone (0.1% w/w) + Neomycin (0.5% w/w). It belongs to the Topical corticosteroid + Aminoglycoside antibiotic class of medicines.

Uses of Betnovate N Cream

• Treatment of steroid-responsive inflammatory skin conditions with secondary bacterial infection or risk of infection
• such as infected eczema/dermatitis and other infected dermatoses.

Key benefits

• Reduces redness and swelling
• Relieves itching and irritation
• Helps clear susceptible bacterial skin infection
• Useful in infected eczema/dermatitis
• Improves healing in inflamed infected dermatoses

How Betnovate N Cream works

Betamethasone valerate is a topical corticosteroid that reduces inflammation, redness and itching by suppressing local inflammatory mediators. Neomycin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic that inhibits bacterial protein synthesis, helping treat susceptible skin bacterial infections.

How to take Betnovate N Cream

For external use only. Clean and dry the affected area, then apply a thin layer 1–2 times daily or as directed by a doctor. Use the smallest amount for the shortest duration; avoid covering with occlusive dressings unless advised. Wash hands after use (unless treating hands); avoid contact with eyes, mouth and open wounds.

Take it exactly as your doctor prescribed. Do not change the dose or stop early on your own.

Missed dose and overdose

If you miss a dose

Apply it as soon as you remember. If it is nearly time for the next application, skip the missed one — applying extra does not make up for it.

If you take too much

An overdose of this medicine can cause weight gain, high blood sugar, bone thinning and suppression of the body's own steroid production when it is taken over a prolonged period. It is unlikely from skin use. Do not wait for symptoms to appear — go to the nearest emergency department and take the pack or strip with you.

Side effects of Betnovate N Cream

Most side effects of Betnovate N are mild and settle as the body adjusts. Reported side effects include:

• Burning or stinging
• itching
• dryness
• irritation
• redness
• skin thinning (atrophy)
• stretch marks
• acneiform eruptions
• increased hair growth
• contact dermatitis
• hypopigmentation

Stop the medicine and seek help immediately for a rash, swelling of the face or lips, wheezing or difficulty breathing. Tell your doctor about any side effect that persists or worries you.

Safety advice for Betnovate N Cream

Warnings and precautions

Schedule H: use only on prescription. Do not use on viral, fungal or tubercular skin infections, acne, rosacea or perioral dermatitis unless advised. Prolonged/large-area use, use under occlusion, or use in children can increase systemic steroid absorption causing adrenal suppression. Avoid use on face, groin or armpits for long durations; avoid applying on broken skin. Neomycin may cause allergic contact dermatitis; stop and seek medical advice if rash/worsening occurs. Use caution in pregnancy and breastfeeding; if breastfeeding, avoid application on/near nipples.

Do not take Betnovate N if

Not for anyone with a known allergy to this medicine or to any ingredient in the pack. Not for people with an untreated systemic infection, except where the steroid is part of the treatment. Not for use in or around the eyes.

Interactions with other medicines

Other topical corticosteroids (additive effects), occlusive dressings (increase absorption), other ototoxic/nephrotoxic aminoglycosides if significant systemic absorption occurs (rare), topical products that irritate skin (may worsen irritation)

How to store Betnovate N Cream

Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place. Keep tightly closed and protected from heat and direct light. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children.

Expert advice for Betnovate N Cream

Take the whole daily dose in the morning with food, unless your doctor directs otherwise — this suits the body's own rhythm and helps you sleep. Carry a steroid card or note if you are on a long course. Watch your salt, sugar and weight during the course. Wash your hands before and after applying, and cover the area if advised. Do not share towels or bedding while an infection is active.

Manufacturer and class

Manufacturer:

GLAXO SMITHKLINE PHARMA

Therapeutic class:

Dermatological (Topical corticosteroid with antibiotic)

Drug class:

Topical corticosteroid + Aminoglycoside antibiotic