Betamethasone Information:

• What

What is betamethasone?

Betamethasone is in the corticosteroid class of drugs. Corticosteroids help reduce inflammation, and the various forms of betamethasone are used to treat a number of conditions, including arthritis, allergic reactions, skin conditions, ulcerative colitis, psoriasis, and lupus.

• How

How do I take betamethasone?

Your dosage instructions will depend on your condition and the form of the drug, so pay careful attention to your doctor’s directions. If you are using the liquid version of the betamethasone drug, use the special measuring device that comes with your medication to measure each dose. If you are using one of the topical versions, wash and dry the affected skin, and then apply a thin layer of betamethasone to the affected area only.

• Precautions

Before taking betamethasone, tell your doctor if:

 

• You are allergic to this or any other corticosteroids
• You have any other allergies
• You are taking any other prescription or non-prescription drugs or supplements
• You currently have a fungal infection
• You have an infection or sore on the area of skin to be treated (with the topical drug)
• You have a history of immune system problems
• You have blood circulation problems, high blood pressure, or heart problems
• You have kidney or liver disease
• You have had malaria
• You have glaucoma, cataracts, or an ophthalmic herpes infection
• You have stomach ulcers or ulcerative colitis
• You have myasthenia gravis
• You have tuberculosis
• You have osteoporosis
• You have diabetes
• You have a thyroid disorder
• You have a history of mental illness
• You are breastfeeding, pregnant, or trying to become pregnant
• Side Effects

What are the possible side effects of taking betamethasone?

Betamethasone may cause mild skin irritation, slower wound healing, mood changes, headaches, lightheadedness, nausea, increased sweating, stomach pain, and bloating. If you have any of these mild side effects, they may go away on their own as your body adjusts to the medication. If they last a long time or become bothersome, tell your doctor. Contact your doctor right away if you have any rare but serious side effects, including vision changes, sudden weight gain, blood stools or vomit, severe stomach pain, unusual thoughts or behavior, confusion, muscle weakness, or very high blood pressure. These are not all the possible side effects, and you should always talk to your doctor if you have any side effects that concern you.

• Missed Dose

What if I forget to take a dose of betamethasone?

Try to use betamethasone at the same time every day to make it easier to remember. If you do forget a dose, call your doctor to find out what to do.

• Storage

How do I store betamethasone?

Keep betamethasone in a tightly sealed container, out of reach of any children or pets in your home. Since heat and bright light can negatively affect this medication, avoid storing it in the bathroom. Keep it in a dry environment at room temperature.

• Overdose

What happens if I overdose on betamethasone?

Betamethasone is a high-strength steroid, and overdosing may cause serious side effects. If you or someone in your household has overdosed or swallowed some of the topical medication, call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 right away.

• Additional Info

Warnings

Corticosteroids like betamethasone suppress the immune system, so avoid being around people who are sick or have infections while you are taking this drug. You should also avoid getting any vaccines and drinking alcohol while you are using betamethasone.

 

Brand Names

Brand name forms of the betamethasone drug include Diprolene AF, Celestone, Celestone Phosphate, and Celestone Soluspan. Search our site for coupons for any form of betamethasone. Talk to your doctor to determine which medication is best for your condition.