Betnovate Cream - Eczema Treatment

Betnovate cream is a prescription-only steroid treatment used to treat symptoms like irritation and red flare-ups on skin experienced by those with eczema and psoriasis. A course of 7 to 10 days clears up the symptoms. GlaxoSmithKline manufactures Betnovate. It is available as a cream, lotion and ointment packed in 30g and 100g sizes. The cream is used on the body but not the scalp, and is generally used when weaker treatment has been ineffective to clear eczema. Betnovate's active ingredient is betamethasone valerate, a potent corticosteroid. When the body gets exposed to an allergen or irritation, it reacts by producing chemicals. The chemicals widen blood vessels and cause inflammation of the skin, which results in eczema breakouts. Betnovate has anti-inflammatory properties. It works by inhibiting the body’s inflammatory response by preventing cells from releasing large amounts of these substances. Thus the sore skin returns to normal.

What is Betnovate Cream used for?

Betnovate Cream is used to treat inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis. It helps reduce redness, itching, and swelling associated with these conditions.

How should I apply Betnovate Cream?

Apply a thin layer of Betnovate Cream to the affected area once or twice daily, as directed by your doctor. Gently rub it into the skin. Do not use it on your face unless directed by a doctor, and avoid contact with your eyes.

Can Betnovate Cream be used on children?

Yes, but with caution. Do not cover the treated area with dressings or bandages on children, as this can increase the risk of side effects. Consult your doctor for specific instructions on treating severe nappy rash with Betnovate.

What are the possible side effects of Betnovate Cream?

Common side effects include burning, itching, or irritation at the application site. Long-term use can cause skin thinning or adrenal gland problems. Contact your doctor if you notice unusual symptoms or if your condition worsens.

How long should I use Betnovate Cream?

Use Betnovate Cream as prescribed by your doctor, typically for a few weeks at a time. Do not use it for more than 4 weeks without medical advice. For long-term conditions, your doctor may recommend intermittent use to reduce the risk of side effects.

Can Betnovate Cream be used on all parts of the body?

Betnovate is suitable for most body areas except for delicate skin on the face, unless specifically directed by a doctor.

What precautions should I take while using Betnovate Cream?

Avoid applying Betnovate near the eyes or on eyelids. Do not use it on broken or infected skin. If you need to apply it under a bandage or plaster, wait at least 10 minutes after application.

Do not apply Betnovate cream on sensitive areas, such as on the face, under the eyes, or ears. The cream is unsuitable for you if you have the below conditions:

• - Are allergic to steroid medicines.
• - Have a large area of affected itchy skin.
• - Acne vulgaris
• - Have a chronic leg ulcer.
• - Are pregnant.

Directions

• - Apply a thin layer of Betnovate cream carefully to the affected area once or twice daily, depending on the prescription.
• - When using airtight dressings on the inflamed skin, clean the affected area first, then apply the cream and a clean dressing. Remember to wash your hands before and after each application.
• - Betnovate cream can be used alongside other topical medicines. Leave a window of 30 minutes in between to prevent any medicine from becoming diluted.

The active ingredient in Betnovate is betamethasone 0.1% (as valerate). It also contains cetomacrogol 1000, chlorocresol, cetostearyl alcohol, soft white paraffin, liquid paraffin, sodium acid phosphate, phosphoric acid, sodium hydroxide and purified water.

Side effects from using Betnovate cream are rare. If you experience any, they may include:

• - A burning, crusty or itching sensation on the skin.
• - Thinning of skin after prolonged use.
• - Subtle changes to skin pigmentation.