Betnovate 0.1% Cream

Betamethasone valerate is a steroid (corticosteroid) used on the skin. It calms the reaction that makes skin red, itchy, swollen and irritated. It is usually prescribed when milder treatments have not worked.

It is used for:

• eczema
• contact dermatitis
• psoriasis

Creams suit moist or weepy skin, and ointments suit dry or flaky skin. Lotions and foams are used on the scalp.

Use it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist tells you, usually once or twice a day.

• Wash and dry your hands. Spread a thin layer over all the irritated skin, not on cuts or broken skin.
• One fingertip unit (a strip from the fingertip to the first joint) covers an area about twice the size of your palm.
• Wait at least 30 minutes before putting on moisturisers or other skin products.
• Do not cover it with bandages on a child unless a doctor says so.
• See your doctor if your skin is not better within 2 to 4 weeks (5 days for children). Do not use it for longer than 4 weeks without advice.
• After long use, do not stop suddenly; your doctor may reduce it slowly.

Common side effects include:

• burning or stinging for a few minutes after applying it, usually only for the first few days
• lighter or darker patches of skin

Stop using it and get medical help if you have:

• signs of skin infection, such as swelling, weeping yellow fluid or spreading redness
• thinning skin or stretch marks
• pus-filled bumps (if using it for psoriasis)
• burning and redness that spreads after you stop using it
• new eyesight problems, extreme tiredness, being sick or dizziness
• swelling of the face, lips or throat, or trouble breathing (call emergency services)

Check with your doctor or pharmacist before using it if you:

• have had a reaction to betamethasone or another medicine
• have impetigo, acne, rosacea or a rash around the mouth
• have a skin infection, broken skin or itchy skin that is not inflamed
• have plaque psoriasis
• want to use it on the face or on a young child
• are breastfeeding

Store as directed on the pack or leaflet, and keep out of the reach of children. Ask your pharmacist if you are unsure.

Fire risk: clothing and bedding with dried product on them burn more easily. Keep away from naked flames and do not smoke.

Long-term use: using it on large areas for a long time increases the risk of side effects, including slowed growth in children.

Pregnancy: very little gets into the blood, so it is considered safe to use.

Breastfeeding: use it on the smallest area for the shortest time. If used on the breast, wash it off before feeding.