โ Active Ingredient Overview Table:
| ๐ฌ Active Ingredient (Generic Name): | Betamethasone Valerate |
|---|---|
| ๐ Indication: | Eczematous Dermatoses, Psoriasis, Inflammatory Skin Conditions |
| ๐บ๐ธ US Brand Equivalent: | Betnovate not directly marketed; see Diprolene (Betamethasone Dipropionate) |
| ๐ญ Manufacturer: | GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals Ltd (Founded: 2000) |
| ๐ฆ Packaging: | 20 g & 30 g Ointment Tubes |
| ๐งช Strength: | 0.1% w/w Betamethasone Valerate |
| ๐ Delivery Time: | 6โ15 days |
๐ฟ 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-ฮฑ) and inhibits leukocyte migration. Thus, Betnovate promotes rapid symptomatic relief and improves skin appearance.
๐งฌ Pharmacology & Mechanism of Action
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | C26H35FO5 |
| Molecular Weight | 412.55 g/mol |
| Mode of Action | Binds glucocorticoid receptors โ modulates gene transcription โ decreases inflammatory mediators โ vasoconstriction reduces erythema |
| Potency Class | Class 4 (Potent) Topical Corticosteroid |
๐ก Indications & Application Guidelines
| Condition | Application |
|---|---|
| Eczematous Dermatoses | โข Clean and dry affected area. โข Apply thin layer of Betnovate Ointment 1โ2 times daily. โข Massage gently until absorbed. |
| Psoriasis Plaques | โข Apply a thin film 1โ2 times daily to lesions. โข Use for up to 2 weeks, then reassess to avoid tachyphylaxis. |
| Contact Dermatitis/Lichen Plans | โข Cleanse area; apply thin layer 1โ2 times daily. โข Continue until lesion resolution (usually 1โ2 weeks). |
Avoid applying to face, groin, or axilla unless directed by physician. Use sparingly to minimize systemic absorption and side effects.
โ ๏ธ 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.
๐ฅ Storage Instructions
Store Betnovate Ointment at 20โ25ยฐC in its original tube. Protect from direct sunlight and excessive heat. Keep cap tightly closed and out of reach of children.
๐ 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.
๐ Authoritative Resources
๐ Related Topical Dermatoses Therapies (Indian Brands)
- Betnovate-C โ Allergy symptoms
๐ฅ Educational Video on Topical Corticosteroids
๐จโโ๏ธ Expert Insight: Dr. Sangeeta Patel, Dermatologist
โBetnovate Ointmentโs 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.โ




