Betamethasone is a type of steroid called a corticosteroid.

Uses

It is used to treat skin conditions that cause inflammation and itchiness.

Side Effects

When doctors administer betamethasone injections, people may report a range of side effects that affect different parts of the body, including the:

immune system

cardiovascular system

skin

endocrine system

abdominal tract

muscles and bones

central and peripheral nervous system

eyes

People may also report side effects when using betamethasone lotion or ointment on their skin. The most common side effects that people report include:

redness of the skin

inflammation of the hair follicles

itchiness

blistering of the skin

Betamethasone dipropionate cream is a weaker corticosteroid than the ointment, and people report fewer side effects. In a study of 242 adults using betamethasone dipropionate cream, only one person experienced an adverse effect, which was a stinging sensation.

Burning and stinging of the skin can also occur when people use betamethasone valerate aerosol foam.

When people use betamethasone dipropionate spray, the most common side effects are:

itchiness

burning or stinging

pain

thinning of the skin

Rarely, people who use betamethasone valerate products may experience localized side effects on the area where they applied the product. These may include:

burning

itchiness

irritation

dryness

inflammation of the hair follicles

excessive hair growth

acne-like eruptions on the skin

lightening of the skin

rash

softening or breaking down of the skin

infections

thinning of the skin

the appearance of stretch marks

heat rash

Warnings and risks

Anyone who has a history of allergic reactions to betamethasone or any ingredient in betamethasone injections should avoid this treatment.

When prescribing topical betamethasone, doctors should not give this treatment to any person with a history of allergic reactions to betamethasone or any other corticosteroid.

In rare cases, a person who uses corticosteroids on their skin may experienceTrusted Source hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis suppression and adrenal insufficiency.

The HPA axis produces steroids that control and regulate many body functions. When people use corticosteroids, the body may stop producing steroids. As a result, the adrenal glands may shrink and stop working properly.

Although HPA suppression is rare, it is more common if a person:

uses a high potency corticosteroid

applies the product to a large area of the skin

uses the product for a prolonged period

When people use betamethasone appropriately, they will rarely experience this serious side effect.

Young children are more susceptible to HPA axis suppression because of their larger skin surface to body weight ratio.

Disclaimer: Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.