Betamethasone

Betamethasone is a strong steroid. It is mostly used as a cream or ointment for inflamed skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.

Type of medicine

Corticosteroid

Also known as

Betnovate, Betnesol, Diprosone, Dovobet (with calcipotriol)

Comes as

cream, ointment, scalp application, tablets, eye drops, ear drops, nose drops, injection

How you get it

Prescription only

What it is used for

Eczema, psoriasis and other inflamed skin conditions (cream, ointment, scalp application)
Inflammation in the eyes, ears or nose (drops)
Severe allergic and inflammatory conditions (tablets or injection)

Read our guides:

Off-label uses

Doctors sometimes prescribe a medicine for a condition it is not officially licensed for. This is called off-label use. It is legal and common when there is good evidence it helps, and your doctor should explain why they are suggesting it.

Betamethasone is not commonly used off-label.

How it works

Betamethasone is a corticosteroid. It reduces inflammation by calming the immune response in the skin or other tissues, which eases redness, itching and swelling.

Side effects

Like all medicines, Betamethasone can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Many are mild and ease after the first few weeks.

Common side effects

burning or stinging when you first apply it
thinning of the skin with long use
stretch marks
spots or acne where it is applied

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if these bother you or do not go away.

Serious side effects

These are rare. Call 111 or contact your doctor straight away if you get:

signs of a skin infection, such as weeping, crusting or pain
with tablets, changes in mood, very high blood sugar or signs of infection

Call 999 if you have signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of your lips, mouth, throat or tongue, or trouble breathing.

You can report any side effect to the Yellow Card scheme, run by the medicines regulator.

Stopping and withdrawal

Important safety information

Use the smallest amount for the shortest time. Ask how many fingertip units to use.
Do not use it on the face unless your doctor tells you to.
Steroid tablets can affect your body's natural steroid production. Carry a steroid card if you are given one.

Questions about your medicine?

A pharmacist can answer questions about your medicines for free, without an appointment. You can also ask your GP for a medication review. Check if you can get free prescriptions.