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Pronunciation
(bay ta METH a sone)
Generic Available (U.S.)
Yes: Excludes foam, solution
Index Terms
Brand Names: U.S.
Brand Names: Canada
Pharmacologic Category
Pharmacologic Category Synonyms
Use: Labeled Indications
Inflammatory dermatoses such as seborrheic or atopic dermatitis, neurodermatitis, anogenital pruritus, psoriasis, inflammatory phase of xerosis
Use: Dental
Treatment of a variety of oral diseases of allergic, inflammatory, or autoimmune origin
Use: Unlabeled
Accelerate fetal lung maturation in patients with preterm labor
Pregnancy Risk Factor
C
Pregnancy Considerations
Adverse events have been observed with corticosteroids in animal reproduction studies. Betamethasone crosses the placenta; approximately 25% is metabolized by placental enzymes to an inactive metabolite. Due to its positive effect on stimulating fetal lung maturation, the injection is often used in patients with premature labor (24-34 weeks gestation). Topical products are not recommended for extensive use, in large quantities, or for long periods of time in pregnant women. Some studies have shown an association between first trimester systemic corticosteroid use and oral clefts; adverse events in the fetus/neonate have been noted in case reports following large doses of systemic corticosteroids during pregnancy. Women exposed to betamethasone during pregnancy for the treatment of an autoimmune disease may contact the OTIS Autoimmune Diseases Study at 877-311-8972.
Lactation
Excretion in breast milk unknown/use caution
Breast-Feeding Considerations
Corticosteroids are excreted in human milk. The onset of milk secretion after birth may be delayed and the volume of milk produced may be decreased by antenatal betamethasone therapy; this affect was seen when delivery occurred 3-9 days after the betamethasone dose in women between 28 and 34 weeks gestation. Antenatal betamethasone therapy did not affect milk production when birth occurred <3 days or >10 days of treatment. It is not known if systemic absorption following topical administration results in detectable quantities in human milk. Use with caution while breast-feeding; do not apply to nipples.
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to betamethasone, other corticosteroids, or any component of the formulation; systemic fungal infections; I.M. administration contraindicated in idiopathic thrombocytopenia purpura
Warnings/Precautions
Concerns related to adverse effects:
• Adrenal suppression: May cause hypercorticism or suppression of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, particularly in younger children or in patients receiving high doses for prolonged periods. HPA axis suppression may lead to adrenal crisis. Withdrawal and discontinuation of a corticosteroid should be done slowly and carefully. Particular care is required when patients are transferred from systemic corticosteroids to inhaled products due to possible adrenal insufficiency or withdrawal from steroids, including an increase in allergic symptoms. Patients receiving >20 mg per day of prednisone (or equivalent) may be most susceptible. Fatalities have occurred due to adrenal insufficiency in asthmatic patients during and after transfer from systemic corticosteroids to aerosol steroids; aerosol steroids do not provide the systemic steroid needed to treat patients having trauma, surgery, or infections. In stressful situations, HPA axis-suppressed patients should receive adequate supplementation with natural glucocorticoids (hydrocortisone or cortisone) rather than betamethasone (due to lack of mineralocorticoid activity).
• Immunosuppression: Prolonged use of corticosteroids may also increase the incidence of secondary infection, mask acute infection (including fungal infections), prolong or exacerbate viral infections, or limit response to vaccines. Exposure to chickenpox should be avoided; corticosteroids should not be used to treat ocular herpes simplex. Corticosteroids should not be used for cerebral malaria or viral hepatitis. Close observation is required in patients with latent tuberculosis and/or TB reactivity; restrict use in active TB (only in conjunction with antituberculosis treatment).
• Kaposi's sarcoma: Prolonged treatment with corticosteroids has been associated with the development of Kaposi's sarcoma (case reports); if noted, discontinuation of therapy should be considered.
• Myopathy: Acute myopathy has been reported with high dose corticosteroids, usually in patients with neuromuscular transmission disorders; may involve ocular and/or respiratory muscles; monitor creatine kinase; recovery may be delayed.
• Psychiatric disturbances: Corticosteroid use may cause psychiatric disturbances, including depression, euphoria, insomnia, mood swings, and personality changes. Pre-existing psychiatric conditions may be exacerbated by corticosteroid use.
• Skin reactions: Discontinue if skin irritation or contact dermatitis should occur; do not use in patients with decreased skin circulation.
• Systemic effects: Topical corticosteroids may be absorbed percutaneously. Absorption of topical corticosteroids may cause manifestations of Cushing's syndrome, hyperglycemia, or glycosuria. Absorption is increased by the use of occlusive dressings, application to denuded skin, or application to large surface areas.
Disease-related issues:
• Cardiovascular disease: Use with caution in patients with HF; long-term use has been associated with fluid retention and hypertension.
• Diabetes: Use with caution in patients with diabetes mellitus; may alter glucose production/regulation leading to hyperglycemia.
• Gastrointestinal disease: Use with caution in patients with GI diseases (diverticulitis, peptic ulcer, ulcerative colitis) due to perforation risk.
• Head injury: Increased mortality was observed in patients receiving high-dose I.V. methylprednisolone; high-dose corticosteroids should not be used for the management of head injury.
• Hepatic impairment: Use with caution in patients with hepatic impairment, including cirrhosis; long-term use has been associated with fluid retention.
• Myasthenia gravis: Use with caution in patients with myasthenia gravis; exacerbation of symptoms has occurred especially during initial treatment with corticosteroids.
• Myocardial infarction (MI): Use with caution following acute MI; corticosteroids have been associated with myocardial rupture.
• Ocular disease: Use with caution in patients with cataracts and/or glaucoma; increased intraocular pressure, open-angle glaucoma, and cataracts have occurred with prolonged use. Consider routine eye exams in chronic users.
• Osteoporosis: Use with caution in patients with osteoporosis; high doses and/or long-term use of corticosteroids have been associated with increased bone loss and osteoporotic fractures.
• Renal impairment: Use with caution in patients with renal impairment; fluid retention may occur.
• Seizure disorders: Use with caution in patients with a history of seizure disorder; seizures have been reported with adrenal crisis.
• Thyroid disease: Changes in thyroid status may necessitate dosage adjustments; metabolic clearance of corticosteroids increases in hyperthyroid patients and decreases in hypothyroid ones.
Special populations:
• Elderly: Because of the risk of adverse effects, systemic corticosteroids should be used cautiously in the elderly in the smallest possible effective dose for the shortest duration.
• Pediatrics: Topical use in patients ≤12 years of age is not recommended. Children may absorb proportionally larger amounts after topical application and may be more prone to systemic effects. HPA axis suppression, intracranial hypertension, and Cushing's syndrome have been reported in children receiving topical corticosteroids. Prolonged use may affect growth velocity; growth should be routinely monitored in pediatric patients.
Dosage form specific issues:
• Topical: Do not use occlusive dressings on weeping or exudative lesions and general caution with occlusive dressings should be observed; adverse effects may be increased.
• Very high potency topical products: Not for treatment of rosacea, perioral dermatitis; not for use on face, groin, or axillae; not for use in a diapered area. Avoid concurrent use of other corticosteroids.
Other warnings/precautions:
• Discontinuation of therapy: Withdraw therapy with gradual tapering of dose.
Adverse Reactions
Systemic:
Cardiovascular: Congestive heart failure, edema, hyper-/hypotension
Central nervous system: Dizziness, headache, insomnia, intracranial pressure increased, lightheadedness, nervousness, pseudotumor cerebri, seizure, vertigo
Dermatologic: Ecchymoses, facial erythema, fragile skin, hirsutism, hyper-/hypopigmentation, perioral dermatitis (oral), petechiae, striae, wound healing impaired
Endocrine & metabolic: Amenorrhea, Cushing's syndrome, diabetes mellitus, growth suppression, hyperglycemia, hypokalemia, menstrual irregularities, pituitary-adrenal axis suppression, protein catabolism, sodium retention, water retention
Gastrointestinal: Abdominal distention, appetite increased, hiccups, indigestion, peptic ulcer, pancreatitis, ulcerative esophagitis
Local: Injection site reactions (intra-articular use), sterile abscess
Neuromuscular & skeletal: Arthralgia, muscle atrophy, fractures, muscle weakness, myopathy, osteoporosis, necrosis (femoral and humeral heads)
Ocular: Cataracts, glaucoma, intraocular pressure increased
Miscellaneous: Anaphylactoid reaction, diaphoresis, hypersensitivity, secondary infection
Topical:
Dermatologic: Acneiform eruptions, allergic dermatitis, burning, dry skin, erythema, folliculitis, hypertrichosis, irritation, miliaria, pruritus, skin atrophy, striae, vesiculation
Endocrine and metabolic effects have occasionally been reported with topical use.
Metabolism/Transport Effects
None known.
Drug Interactions
Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors. Increased muscular weakness may occur. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Aldesleukin: Corticosteroids may diminish the antineoplastic effect of Aldesleukin. Risk X: Avoid combination
Aminoglutethimide: May increase the metabolism of Corticosteroids (Systemic). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Amphotericin B: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may enhance the hypokalemic effect of Amphotericin B. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Antacids: May decrease the bioavailability of Corticosteroids (Oral). Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Antidiabetic Agents: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may diminish the hypoglycemic effect of Antidiabetic Agents. In some instances, corticosteroid-mediated HPA axis suppression has led to episodes of acute adrenal crisis, which may manifest as enhanced hypoglycemia, particularly in the setting of insulin or other antidiabetic agent use. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic): May decrease the metabolism of Corticosteroids (Systemic). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Aprepitant: May increase the serum concentration of Corticosteroids (Systemic). Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Barbiturates: May decrease the serum concentration of Corticosteroids (Systemic). Risk C: Monitor therapy
BCG: Immunosuppressants may diminish the therapeutic effect of BCG. Risk X: Avoid combination
Bile Acid Sequestrants: May decrease the absorption of Corticosteroids (Oral). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Calcitriol: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may diminish the therapeutic effect of Calcitriol. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Calcium Channel Blockers (Nondihydropyridine): May decrease the metabolism of Corticosteroids (Systemic). Exceptions: Bepridil [Off Market]. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Coccidioidin Skin Test: Immunosuppressants may diminish the diagnostic effect of Coccidioidin Skin Test. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Corticorelin: Corticosteroids may diminish the therapeutic effect of Corticorelin. Specifically, the plasma ACTH response to corticorelin may be blunted by recent or current corticosteroid therapy. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Deferasirox: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Deferasirox. Specifically, the risk for GI ulceration/irritation or GI bleeding may be increased. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Deferasirox: Corticosteroids may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Deferasirox. Specifically, the risk for GI ulceration/irritation or GI bleeding may be increased. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Denosumab: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Immunosuppressants. Specifically, the risk for serious infections may be increased. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Echinacea: May diminish the therapeutic effect of Immunosuppressants. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Estrogen Derivatives: May increase the serum concentration of Corticosteroids (Systemic). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Fluconazole: May decrease the metabolism of Corticosteroids (Systemic). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Fosaprepitant: May increase the serum concentration of Corticosteroids (Systemic). The active metabolite aprepitant is likely responsible for this effect. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Indacaterol: May enhance the hypokalemic effect of Corticosteroids (Systemic). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Isoniazid: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease the serum concentration of Isoniazid. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Leflunomide: Immunosuppressants may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Leflunomide. Specifically, the risk for hematologic toxicity such as pancytopenia, agranulocytosis, and/or thrombocytopenia may be increased. Management: Consider not using a leflunomide loading dose in patients receiving other immunosuppressants. Patients receiving both leflunomide and another immunosuppressant should be monitored for bone marrow suppression at least monthly. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Loop Diuretics: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may enhance the hypokalemic effect of Loop Diuretics. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Macrolide Antibiotics: May decrease the metabolism of Corticosteroids (Systemic). Exceptions: Azithromycin; Azithromycin (Systemic); Fidaxomicin; Spiramycin. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Mitotane: May decrease the serum concentration of Corticosteroids (Systemic). Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Natalizumab: Immunosuppressants may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Natalizumab. Specifically, the risk of concurrent infection may be increased. Risk X: Avoid combination
Neuromuscular-Blocking Agents (Nondepolarizing): May enhance the adverse neuromuscular effect of Corticosteroids (Systemic). Increased muscle weakness, possibly progressing to polyneuropathies and myopathies, may occur. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
NSAID (COX-2 Inhibitor): Corticosteroids (Systemic) may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of NSAID (COX-2 Inhibitor). Risk C: Monitor therapy
NSAID (Nonselective): Corticosteroids (Systemic) may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of NSAID (Nonselective). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Pimecrolimus: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Immunosuppressants. Risk X: Avoid combination
Primidone: May decrease the serum concentration of Corticosteroids (Systemic). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Quinolone Antibiotics: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Corticosteroids (Systemic). Risk of tendon-related side effects, including tendonitis and rupture, may be enhanced. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Rifamycin Derivatives: May increase the metabolism of Corticosteroids (Systemic). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Roflumilast: May enhance the immunosuppressive effect of Immunosuppressants. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Salicylates: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Corticosteroids (Systemic). These specifically include gastrointestinal ulceration and bleeding. Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease the serum concentration of Salicylates. Withdrawal of corticosteroids may result in salicylate toxicity. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Sipuleucel-T: Immunosuppressants may diminish the therapeutic effect of Sipuleucel-T. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Tacrolimus (Topical): May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Immunosuppressants. Risk X: Avoid combination
Telaprevir: May increase the serum concentration of Corticosteroids (Systemic). Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease the serum concentration of Telaprevir. Management: Concurrent use of telaprevir and systemic corticosteroids is not recommended. When possible, consider alternatives. If used together, employ extra caution and monitor closely for excessive corticosteroid effects and diminished telaprevir effects. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Telaprevir: Corticosteroids may decrease the serum concentration of Telaprevir. Telaprevir may increase the serum concentration of Corticosteroids. Management: Concurrent use of telaprevir and systemic corticosteroids is not recommended. When possible, consider alternatives. If used together, employ extra caution and monitor closely for excessive corticosteroid effects and diminished telaprevir effects. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Thiazide Diuretics: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may enhance the hypokalemic effect of Thiazide Diuretics. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Trastuzumab: May enhance the neutropenic effect of Immunosuppressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Vaccines (Inactivated): Immunosuppressants may diminish the therapeutic effect of Vaccines (Inactivated). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Vaccines (Live): Corticosteroids (Systemic) may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Vaccines (Live). Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Warfarin: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may enhance the anticoagulant effect of Warfarin. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Ethanol/Nutrition/Herb Interactions
Ethanol: Avoid ethanol (may enhance gastric mucosal irritation).
Food: Betamethasone interferes with calcium absorption.
Herb/Nutraceutical: Avoid cat's claw, echinacea (have immunostimulant properties).
Compatibility
Y-site administration: Compatible: Heparin, hydrocortisone sodium succinate, potassium chloride, vitamin B complex with C.
Mechanism of Action
Controls the rate of protein synthesis; depresses the migration of polymorphonuclear leukocytes, fibroblasts; reverses capillary permeability and lysosomal stabilization at the cellular level to prevent or control inflammation
Pharmacodynamics/Kinetics
Protein binding: 64%
Metabolism: Hepatic
Half-life elimination: 6.5 hours
Time to peak, serum: I.V.: 10-36 minutes
Excretion: Urine (<5% as unchanged drug)
Dosage
Base dosage on severity of disease and patient response
Children: Use lowest dose listed as initial dose for adrenocortical insufficiency (physiologic replacement)
I.M.: ≤12 years: 0.0175-0.125 mg base/kg/day divided every 6-12 hours or 0.5-7.5 mg base/m2/day divided every 6-12 hours
Oral: ≤12 years: 0.0175-0.25 mg/kg/day divided every 6-8 hours or 0.5-7.5 mg/m2/day divided every 6-8 hours
Topical:
≤12 years: Use is not recommended.
≥13 years: Use minimal amount for shortest period of time to avoid HPA axis suppression
Gel, augmented formulation: Apply once or twice daily; rub in gently. Note: Do not exceed 2 weeks of treatment or 50 g/week.
Lotion: Apply a few drops twice daily
Augmented formulation: Apply a few drops once or twice daily; rub in gently. Note: Do not exceed 2 weeks of treatment or 50 mL/week.
Cream/ointment: Apply once or twice daily.
Augmented formulation: Apply once or twice daily. Note: Do not exceed 2 weeks of treatment or 45 g/week.
Adolescents and Adults:
Oral: 2.4-4.8 mg/day in 2-4 doses; range: 0.6-7.2 mg/day
I.M.: Betamethasone sodium phosphate and betamethasone acetate: 0.6-9 mg/day (generally, 1/3 to 1/2 of oral dose) divided every 12-24 hours
Adults:
Intrabursal, intra-articular, intradermal: 0.25-2 mL
Intralesional: Rheumatoid arthritis/osteoarthritis:
Very large joints: 1-2 mL
Large joints: 1 mL
Medium joints: 0.5-1 mL
Small joints: 0.25-0.5 mL
Topical:
Foam: Apply to the scalp twice daily, once in the morning and once at night
Gel, augmented formulation: Apply once or twice daily; rub in gently. Note: Do not exceed 2 weeks of treatment or 50 g/week.
Lotion: Apply a few drops twice daily
Augmented formulation: Apply a few drops once or twice daily; rub in gently. Note: Do not exceed 2 weeks of treatment or 50 mL/week.
Cream/ointment: Apply once or twice daily
Augmented formulation: Apply once or twice daily. Note: Do not exceed 2 weeks of treatment or 45 g/week.
Dosing adjustment in hepatic impairment: Adjustments may be necessary in patients with liver failure because betamethasone is extensively metabolized in the liver
Dental Usual Dosing
Allergic or inflammatory diseases: Topical: Gel: Apply small quantity with Q-tip to affected area 3-4 times/day
Administration: Oral
Not for alternate day therapy; once daily doses should be given in the morning. May be administered with food to decrease GI distress.
Administration: I.M.
Do not give injectable sodium phosphate/acetate suspension I.V.
Administration: Topical
Apply topical sparingly to areas. Not for use on broken skin or in areas of infection. Do not apply to wet skin unless directed; do not cover with occlusive dressing. Do not apply very high potency agents to face, groin, axillae, or diaper area.
Foam: Invert can and dispense a small amount onto a saucer or other cool surface. Do not dispense directly into hands. Pick up small amounts of foam and gently massage into affected areas until foam disappears. Repeat until entire affected scalp area is treated.
Monitoring Parameters
Growth in children
Test Interactions
May suppress the wheal and flare reactions to skin test antigens
Dietary Considerations
May be taken with food to decrease GI distress.
Patient Education
Take oral medication with or after meals. Avoid alcohol and limit intake of caffeine or stimulants. Prescriber may recommend increased dietary vitamins, minerals, or iron. If you have diabetes, monitor glucose levels closely (antidiabetic medication may need to be adjusted). Inform prescriber if you are experiencing greater-than-normal levels of stress (medication may need adjustment). You may be more susceptible to infection. Some forms of this medication may cause GI upset. Report promptly excessive nervousness or sleep disturbances, signs of infection (eg, sore throat, unhealed injuries), excessive growth of body hair or loss of skin color, vision changes, weight gain, swelling of face or extremities, respiratory difficulty, muscle weakness, change in color of stools (tarry) or persistent abdominal pain, or worsening of condition or failure to improve.
Topical: For external use only. Do not use for eyes, mucous membranes, or open wounds. Before using, wash and dry area gently. Apply in a thin layer (may rub in lightly). Apply light dressing (if necessary) to area being treated. Do not use occlusive dressing unless so advised by prescriber. Avoid prolonged or excessive use around sensitive tissues, genital, or rectal areas. Avoid exposing treated area to direct sunlight. Inform prescriber if condition worsens (redness, swelling, irritation, signs of infection, or open sores) or fails to improve.
Geriatric Considerations
Because of the risk of adverse effects, systemic corticosteroids should be used cautiously in the elderly, in the smallest possible dose, and for the shortest possible time.
Additional Information
Very high potency: Augmented betamethasone dipropionate ointment, lotion
High potency: Augmented betamethasone dipropionate cream, betamethasone dipropionate cream and ointment
Intermediate potency: Betamethasone dipropionate lotion, betamethasone valerate cream
Cardiovascular Considerations
Long-term steroid therapy is associated with fluid retention and hypertension. Glucocorticoid agents have some mineralocorticoid activity with consequent hemodynamic effects. Patients will often have steroid-induced adverse effects on glucose tolerance and lipid profiles. In discontinuing steroid therapy in patients on long-term steroid supplementation, it is important that the steroid therapy be discontinued gradually. Abrupt withdrawal may result in adrenal insufficiency with hypotension and hyperkalemia.
Oral and intravenous steroid therapy in patients with heart failure should be administered cautiously with special attention given to signs and symptoms of fluid retention.
Dental Health: Effects on Dental Treatment
No significant effects or complications reported
Dental Health: Vasoconstrictor/Local Anesthetic Precautions
No information available to require special precautions
Mental Health: Effects on Mental Status
May cause dizziness, insomnia, or nervousness
Mental Health: Effects on Psychiatric Treatment
Enzyme inducers (barbiturates) may decrease the effects of corticosteroids
Nursing: Physical Assessment/Monitoring
Growth should be routinely monitored in pediatric patients. With systemic administration, caution patients with diabetes to monitor glucose levels closely (corticosteroids may alter glucose levels).
Dosage Forms
Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling. [DSC] = Discontinued product
Aerosol, foam, topical, as valerate:
Luxiq®: 0.12% (50 g, 100 g) [contains ethanol 60.4%]
Cream, topical, as dipropionate [strength expressed as base]: 0.05% (15 g, 45 g, 50 g)
Cream, topical, as dipropionate [strength expressed as base, augmented]: 0.05% (15 g, 50 g)
Diprolene® AF: 0.05% (15 g, 50 g)
Cream, topical, as valerate [strength expressed as base]: 0.1% (15 g, 45 g)
Gel, topical, as dipropionate [strength expressed as base, augmented]: 0.05% (15 g, 50 g)
Injection, suspension: Betamethasone sodium phosphate 3 mg and betamethasone acetate 3 mg per 1 mL (5 mL)
Celestone® Soluspan®: Betamethasone sodium phosphate 3 mg and betamethasone acetate 3 mg per 1 mL (5 mL) [contains benzalkonium chloride, edetate disodium; total of 6 mg/mL]
Lotion, topical, as dipropionate [strength expressed as base]: 0.05% (60 mL)
Lotion, topical, as dipropionate [strength expressed as base, augmented]: 0.05% (30 mL, 60 mL)
Diprolene®: 0.05% (30 mL, 60 mL) [contains isopropyl alcohol 30%]
Lotion, topical, as valerate [strength expressed as base]: 0.1% (60 mL)
Ointment, topical, as dipropionate [strength expressed as base]: 0.05% (15 g, 45 g)
Ointment, topical, as dipropionate [strength expressed as base, augmented]: 0.05% (15 g, 45 g, 50 g [DSC])
Diprolene®: 0.05% (15 g, 50 g)
Ointment, topical, as valerate [strength expressed as base]: 0.1% (15 g, 45 g)
Solution, oral, as base:
Celestone®: 0.6 mg/5 mL (118 mL) [contains ethanol <1%, propylene glycol, sodium benzoate]
Pricing: U.S. (www.drugstore.com)
Cream (Betamethasone Dipropionate)
0.05% (15): $12.99
0.05% (45): $63.99
Cream (Betamethasone Dipropionate Aug)
0.05% (15): $34.99
0.05% (50): $64.99
Cream (Betamethasone Valerate)
0.1% (15): $38.03
0.1% (45): $50.99
Cream (Diprolene AF)
0.05% (15): $69.38
0.05% (50): $147.02
Foam (Luxiq)
0.12% (50): $159.83
0.12% (100): $291.59
Gel (Betamethasone Dipropionate Aug)
0.05% (15): $34.15
0.05% (50): $71.54
Lotion (Betamethasone Dipropionate)
0.05% (60): $21.99
Lotion (Betamethasone Dipropionate Aug)
0.05% (60): $90.00
Lotion (Betamethasone Valerate)
0.1% (60): $16.99
Lotion (Diprolene)
0.05% (30): $78.79
0.05% (60): $148.19
Ointment (Betamethasone Dipropionate)
0.05% (15): $49.99
0.05% (45): $75.99
Ointment (Betamethasone Dipropionate Aug)
0.05% (15): $59.99
0.05% (45): $109.99
Ointment (Betamethasone Valerate)
0.1% (15): $11.99
0.1% (45): $15.87
Ointment (Diprolene)
0.05% (15): $69.38
0.05% (50): $147.41
References
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Boot AM, Nauta J, Hokken-Koelega AC, et al, “Renal Transplantation and Osteoporosis,” Arch Dis Child, 1995, 72(6):502-6.
Bowman H and Lennard TW, “Immunosuppressive Drugs,” Br J Hosp Med, 1992, 48(9):570-3.
Committee on Obstetric Practice, “ACOG Committee Opinion: Antenatal Corticosteroid Therapy for Fetal Maturation,” Obstet Gynecol, 2002, 99(5 Pt 1):871-3.
Cooper MS and Stewart PM, “Corticosteroid Insufficiency in Acutely Ill Patients,” N Engl J Med, 2003, 348(8):727-34.
Coursin DB and Wood KE, “Corticosteroid Supplementation for Adrenal Insufficiency,” JAMA, 2002, 287(2):236-40.
Gamsu HR, Mullinger BM, Donnai P, et al, “Antenatal Administration of Betamethasone to Prevent Respiratory Distress Syndrome in Preterm Infants: Report of a UK Multicentre Trial,” Br J Obstet Gynaecol, 1989, 96(4):401-10.
Goedert JJ, Vitale F, Lauria C, et al, “Risk Factors for Classical Kaposi's Sarcoma,” J Natl Cancer Inst, 2002, 94(22):1712-8.
Grotz WH, Mundinger FA, Gugel B, et al, “Bone Mineral Density After Kidney Transplantation: A Cross-Sectional Study in 190-Graft Recipients Up to 20 Years After Transplantation,” Transplantation, 1995, 59(7):982-6.
Gutin PH, “Corticosteroid Therapy in Patients With Brain Tumors,” Natl Cancer Inst Monogr, 1977, 46:151-6.
Henderson JJ, Hartmann PE, Newnham JP, et al, “Effect of Preterm Birth and Antenatal Corticosteroid Treatment on Lactogenesis II in Women,” Pediatrics, 2008, 121(1):e92-100.
Kimberly RP, “Glucocorticoids,” Curr Opin Rheumatol, 1994, 6(3):273-80.
Liggins GC and Howie RN, “A Controlled Trial of Antepartum Glucocorticoid Treatment of Respiratory Distress Syndrome in Premature Infants,” Pediatrics, 1972, 50(4):515-25.
Lowenthal RM and Jestrimski KW, “Corticosteroid Drugs: Their Role in Oncological Practice,” Med J Aust, 1986, 144(2):81-5.
McGee S and Hirschmann J, “Use of Corticosteroids in Treating Infectious Diseases,” Arch Intern Med, 2008, 168(10):1034-46.
Murphy CM, Coonce SL, and Simon PA, “Treatment of Asthma in Children,” Clin Pharm, 1991, 10(9):685-703.
Murphy VE, Fittock RJ, Zarzycki PK, et al, “Metabolism of Synthetic Steroids by the Human Placenta,” Placenta, 2007, 28(1):39-46.
Ostensen M, “Optimisation of Antirheumatic Drug Treatment in Pregnancy,” Clin Pharmacokinet, 1994, 27(6):486-503.
Pradat P, Robert-Gnansia E, Di Tanna GL, et al, “First Trimester Exposure to Corticosteroids and Oral Clefts,” Birth Defects Res A Clin Mol Teratol, 2003, 67(12):968-70.
Reed, BR, “Dermatologic Drugs, Pregnancy, and Lactation. A Conservative Guide,” Arch Dermatol, 1997, 133(7):894-8.
Report of a Workshop by the British Association for Paediatric Nephrology and Research Unit, Royal College of Physicians, “Consensus Statement on Management and Audit Potential for Steroid Responsive Nephrotic Syndrome,” Arch Dis Child, 1994, 70(2):151-7.
International Brand Names
Lexi-Comp.com
Last full review/revision March 2012
Content last modified March 2012
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