Betnovate Skin Cream

Composition of Betnovate Skin Cream

Betnovate Skin Cream contains Betamethasone valerate 0.1% w/w. It belongs to the Topical corticosteroid class of medicines.

Uses of Betnovate Skin Cream

• Steroid-responsive inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema
• dermatitis
• allergic rashes and insect-bite reactions (short-term).

Key benefits

• Relieves itching and redness
• Reduces swelling and inflammation
• Helps control eczema and dermatitis flares
• Soothes allergic rashes

How Betnovate Skin Cream works

Betamethasone is a topical corticosteroid that decreases release of inflammatory mediators in skin. This reduces redness, swelling and itching and helps calm flare-ups.

How to take Betnovate Skin Cream

For external use only. Apply a thin layer to the affected area 1-2 times daily as prescribed. Use the lowest effective amount for the shortest duration; avoid face, groin and underarms unless advised; avoid eyes and wash hands after application.

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 suppress the body's own steroid production when it is used for a long time over large areas, especially in children. 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 Skin Cream

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

• Burning
• stinging
• irritation
• dryness
• skin thinning
• stretch marks
• folliculitis
• acneiform eruptions
• 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 Skin Cream

Warnings and precautions

Do not use on untreated infections (bacterial/fungal/viral), acne or rosacea. Prolonged use or use on large areas can cause systemic corticosteroid effects; children are more susceptible. Do not cover with tight bandages unless directed. Seek advice if no improvement within a week.

Do not take Betnovate Skin if

Not for anyone with a known allergy to this medicine or to any ingredient in the pack. Not for untreated bacterial, fungal or viral skin infections. Not for use in or around the eyes.

Interactions with other medicines

Other topical steroids or occlusion increases systemic absorption; concurrent use with topical irritants may worsen irritation.

How to store Betnovate Skin Cream

Store below 25°C. Protect from light and moisture.

Expert advice for Betnovate Skin Cream

Apply a thin layer — a fingertip's worth covers an area about the size of two adult palms. Use a plain moisturiser generously alongside it; that is what keeps eczema away between flares. Ask your doctor for a written plan of how long to use it and when to step down.

Manufacturer and class

Manufacturer:

GLAXO SMITHKLINE PHARMA

Therapeutic class:

Dermatological (Topical corticosteroid)

Drug class:

Topical corticosteroid