Eczema treatment Betnovate Cream

Betnovate Cream

What is Betnovate Cream?

Betnovate Cream and Betnovate Ointment are prescribed topical corticosteroid treatments used to relieve the symptoms associated with eczema, psoriasis, and various skin conditions characterised by inflammation, irritation, and redness. Typically, a brief treatment course lasting 7 to 10 days proves effective in alleviating flare-ups of red, inflamed, and irritated skin. 

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What is Betnovate Cream used to treat?

Betamethasone, a potent topical corticosteroid, is used in the management of inflammatory skin conditions including: 

  • atopic dermatitis 

  • nummular nodularis 

  • psoriasis (excluding widespread plaque psoriasis) 

  • lichen planus and lichen simplex chronicus 

  • seborrheic dermatitis 

  • contact dermatitis 

Who can and cannot use medicines containing Betnovate Cream?

Betnovate cream is suitable for individuals experiencing inflammatory skin conditions. However, it is essential to note the following precautions: 

Avoid using Betnovate if you are allergic to betamethasone valerate or any of its other ingredients.   

Additionally, refrain from using it on infants under 1 year old.   

This medication should not be applied to treat certain skin problems, as it may exacerbate conditions such as acne, severe flushing of the skin around the nose (rosacea), spotty red rash around the mouth (perioral dermatitis), itching around the anus or genitals, infected skin (unless being concurrently treated with an antimicrobial medicine), and itchy skin without inflammation.   

If uncertain, consult your doctor or pharmacist before using Betnovate.  

Prior to usage, discuss with your doctor or pharmacist if:   

  • you have previously experienced an allergic reaction to another steroid   

  • you are applying the cream under an airtight dressing, including a child's nappy, as this may increase the risk of inadvertently using excessive amounts   

  • you have psoriasis, requiring more frequent monitoring by your doctor   

  • you are using it for a chronic leg ulcer, as there may be an elevated risk of local allergic reaction or infection   

  • you are applying it to a large surface area  

  • you are applying the cream on broken skin or within skin folds   

  • you are applying it near the eyes or on eyelids, as repeated entry into the eyes may lead to cataracts or glaucoma   

  • you have a skin infection, as this will need to be treated separately  

  • you are applying it to thin skin, such as the face or on children, as their skin absorbs larger amounts due to its thinner nature compared to adults 

If you are expecting a child, breastfeeding, think you may be pregnant, or are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor or pharmacist for guidance before using this medication. 

eczema image, woman itching irritated skin on her arm

How long should I use Betnovate Cream for?

Follow the guidance outlined by your prescriber. If your condition recurs shortly after stopping treatment (within two weeks), do not resume without consulting your prescriber unless previously advised. 

If the redness extends beyond the initial area and you experience a burning sensation upon recurrence, seek medical advice before restarting treatment.

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Frequently asked questions

Similar to all medications, side effects can occur with Betnovate, although they may not affect everyone. Cease using Betnovate and promptly inform your doctor if you observe a worsening of your skin condition, develop a generalised rash, or experience skin swelling during treatment. These symptoms could indicate an allergy to Betnovate, an underlying infection, or the need for alternative treatment. 

If you have psoriasis and experience raised bumps with pus under the skin, known as pustular psoriasis, which can rarely occur during or after treatment. 

Common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 people): 

  • Feeling of burning, pain, irritation, or itching at the cream application site 

Very rare side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10,000 people): 

  • Increased risk of infection 

  • Allergic skin reaction at the cream application site 

  • Rash, itchy bumpy skin, or redness of the skin 

  • Thinning and dryness of the skin, which may lead to increased susceptibility to damage or wrinkles 

  • Development of stretch marks 

  • Increased visibility of blood vessels under the skin 

  • Changes in hair growth or loss, and alterations in skin colour 

  • Weight gain and rounding of the face 

  • Delayed weight gain or slowed growth in children 

  • Thin, weak bones that may break easily 

  • Cloudy lens in the eye (cataract) or increased eye pressure (glaucoma) 

  • Decrease in the level of the hormone cortisol in the blood 

  • Increased blood sugar levels or sugar in the urine 

  • High blood pressure 

Not known (frequency cannot be estimated from available data): 

  • Blurred vision 

Steroid withdrawal reaction:  

If used continuously for prolonged periods, a withdrawal reaction may occur upon stopping treatment, presenting with redness of the skin extending beyond the initial treated area, a burning or stinging sensation, intense itching, peeling of the skin, and oozing open sores. 

Always read the patient information leaflet for Betnovate Cream before using it. 

Avoid smoking or close proximity to open flames as materials (clothing, bedding, dressings, etc.) in contact with the product are highly flammable. 

Washing clothing and bedding may reduce product build-up but won't entirely eliminate it. 

Betnovate contains 1mg of betamethasone valerate as its active ingredient in each 1g of cream (0.1% w/w). The cream is available in tubes featuring a plastic screw cap. Each tube includes either 30g or 100g of Betnovate Cream.