Betnovate-N CreamRx only

Product information

What Betnovate-N Cream is used for

• Eczema, psoriasis and inflammatory skin disease
• Severe allergic skin reactions
• Lung maturation before preterm delivery (injection)
• Joint inflammation
• Infected skin conditions, usually with a steroid
• Eye and ear drops
• Bowel preparation before surgery (oral)

How it works

Betamethasone

Betamethasone is a potent steroid used mainly on the skin to suppress inflammation, and by injection to mature a premature baby's lungs.

Neomycin

Neomycin blocks bacterial protein synthesis. It is used on the skin, in the eye and in the ear because it is too toxic to give by injection.

Common side effects

• Skin thinning, stretch marks and visible blood vessels with prolonged use
• Burning at application
• Acne or increased hair growth locally
• Raised blood sugar with systemic use
• Allergic contact dermatitis, which is common with prolonged use
• Local irritation
• Itching

Most side effects are mild and settle as your body adjusts. Tell your doctor if any of them persist or trouble you.

Safety advice

Quick tips

• Use the smallest amount on the smallest area for the shortest time
• Do not use it on the face unless specifically prescribed
• Steroid-antifungal combination creams are widely misused in India and worsen fungal infections — do not use them for ringworm
• Contact allergy to neomycin is common — stop if the rash worsens rather than improves
• Do not use ear drops if there is any chance of a perforated eardrum
• Use for short courses only

Substitutes with the same composition

3 brands with the same salt and strength — same form first, then cheapest. Pack size and form can still differ, and the same salt does not suit every patient. Please confirm with our pharmacist before switching.