✅ Active Ingredient Overview Table:

🔬 Active Ingredient (Generic Name):	Betamethasone Valerate
💊 Indication:	Eczematous Dermatoses, Psoriasis, Inflammatory Skin Conditions
🇺🇸 US Brand Equivalent:	Betnovate not directly marketed; see Diprolene (Betamethasone Dipropionate)
🏭 Manufacturer:	GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals Ltd (Founded: 2000)
📦 Packaging:	20 g & 30 g Ointment Tubes
🧪 Strength:	0.1% w/w Betamethasone Valerate
🚚 Delivery Time:	6–15 days

🌿 What is Betamethasone 0.1% (Betnovate Ointment)?

Betnovate Ointment contains betamethasone valerate, a potent topical corticosteroid. It reduces inflammation, itching, and redness in a variety of dermatoses such as eczema, psoriasis, and contact dermatitis. By binding to glucocorticoid receptors in skin cells, betamethasone downregulates pro-inflammatory cytokines (e.g., IL-1, TNF-α) and inhibits leukocyte migration. Thus, Betnovate promotes rapid symptomatic relief and improves skin appearance.

🧬 Pharmacology & Mechanism of Action

Attribute	Detail
Chemical Formula	C26H35FO5
Molecular Weight	412.55 g/mol
Mode of Action	Binds glucocorticoid receptors → modulates gene transcription → decreases inflammatory mediators → vasoconstriction reduces erythema
Potency Class	Class 4 (Potent) Topical Corticosteroid

💡 Indications & Application Guidelines

Condition	Application
Eczematous Dermatoses	• Clean and dry affected area. • Apply thin layer of Betnovate Ointment 1–2 times daily. • Massage gently until absorbed.
Psoriasis Plaques	• Apply a thin film 1–2 times daily to lesions. • Use for up to 2 weeks, then reassess to avoid tachyphylaxis.
Contact Dermatitis/Lichen Plans	• Cleanse area; apply thin layer 1–2 times daily. • Continue until lesion resolution (usually 1–2 weeks).

Avoid applying to face, groin, or axilla unless directed by physician. Use sparingly to minimize systemic absorption and side effects.

⚠️ Warnings & Side Effects

Common:

Burning or stinging upon application
Skin atrophy, telangiectasia with prolonged use
Mild folliculitis

Serious (Rare):

Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis suppression (especially with occlusion or large-area use)
Hypertrichosis in treated area
Contact sensitization (allergic contact dermatitis)

Precautions:

Limit duration to 14 days for potent steroids on body; 7 days on face/skin folds.
Avoid occlusive dressings unless prescribed.
Monitor pediatric and elderly patients closely for systemic absorption.
Discontinue if infection or irritation worsens; treat underlying infection first.

🏥 Storage Instructions

Store Betnovate Ointment at 20–25°C in its original tube. Protect from direct sunlight and excessive heat. Keep cap tightly closed and out of reach of children.

🌐 Availability & Purchasing

United States: Equivalent potent topical steroids (e.g., Diprolene 0.05% cream) require prescription. Betamethasone valerate ointment may be available via compounding.
United Kingdom & EU: Prescription required; Betnovate readily prescribed by dermatologists and GPs.
Australia: Prescription-only (Schedule 4); Betamethasone valerate ointment accessible under dermatologist care.

Importing Betnovate from India is possible under personal importation schemes; ensure valid prescription and compliance with customs regulations to prevent delays.

🔗 Authoritative Resources

🔗 Related Topical Dermatoses Therapies (Indian Brands)

Betnovate-C – Allergy symptoms

🎥 Educational Video on Topical Corticosteroids

👨‍⚕️ Expert Insight: Dr. Sangeeta Patel, Dermatologist

“Betnovate Ointment’s potent anti-inflammatory action is highly effective for psoriasis and severe eczema. However, limiting duration and careful monitoring are essential to prevent skin atrophy and systemic effects.”