Drug Name

Betnovate (Betamethasone)

Drug Uses

Betnovate helps to reduce the redness, itching, and swelling of skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, contact dermatitis, and seborrhea.

How Taken

Use Betnovate as directed by your doctor.

• This medication is usually applied 2 or 3 times daily or according to the instruction. Enough medication should be applied to completely cover the affected area with a thin film. The medication should be gently and thoroughly massaged into the affected area. In certain conditions, the doctor will order the application to be covered with a dressing.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Betnovate.

Drug Class and Mechanism

Betnovate is a corticosteroid that is used for the topical treatment of skin irritations.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Storage

Store Betnovate at room temperature, between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C). Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Keep Betnovate out of the reach of children and away from pets.

Warnings/Precautions

Betnovate should not be taken by anyone who:

• is allergic to betamethasone valerate or any of the ingredients of the medication;
• has chickenpox;
• has fungal, yeast, or viral skin lesions;
• has herpes simplex;
• has tuberculosis of the skin;
• has vaccinia.

Possible Side Effects

Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:

• burning or itching of the skin;
• dark red spots on the skin;
• infection;
• lack of healing of the skin condition;
• painful, red, pus-filled blisters in hair follicles;
• severe burning and continued itching of the skin;
• thinning of the skin, with easy bruising, sunburn more likely especially on the face.

Other serious side effects can develop if you use Betnovate for a long time, or if you use too much. Contact your prescriber or health care professional if you notice any unusual effects.

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• burning, itching, or irritation of the skin;
• dry skin;
• increased redness or scaling of the skin.

More Information

Betnovate is to be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not share it with other people.
If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor.