What is Betamethasone - Meaning and definition

Published by Roberto Wenk. Last updated date: June 9, 2016.

A synthetic glucocorticoid with metabolic, immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory activities.
Betamethasone binds to specific intracellular glucocorticoid receptors and subsequently binds to DNA to modify gene expression. The synthesis of certain anti-inflammatory proteins is induced while the synthesis of certain inflammatory mediators is inhibited. As a result, there is an overall reduction in chronic inflammation and autoimmune reactions.

National Cancer Institute. NCI Drug Dictionary. Internet. September 15, 2009.

Published by Roberto Wenk. Reviewed by Alison Ramsey. Last updated date: September 13, 2018.

PO
Allergic and inflammatory disorders — congenital adrenal hyperplasia 0.5-5 mg/day.

IM
Allergic and inflammatory disorders — betamethasone Na phosphate and betamethasone acetate. Initial: 0.25-9 mg/day in 1-2 divided doses.

Allergic and inflammatory conditions of the eye — 0.1% soln: as Na phosphate: instill 1-2 hrly until symptoms are controlled; 0.1% oint: as Na phosphate: apply 2-4 times/day or at night w/ the eye drops
Topical skin disorders — dipropionate (0.05%) or valerate (0.025 or 0.1%): apply as directed.

Adverse drug reactions: sodium and fluid retention, potassium and calcium depletion. Muscle wasting, weakness, osteoporosis. GI disturbances and bleeding. Increased appetite and delayed wound healing. Hirsutism, bruising, striae, acne. Raised intracranial pressure, headache, depression, psychosis, menstrual irregularities. Hyperglycemia.

CIMS Drug Information System. Internet. Accessed on January 10, 2016.

Betamethasone

To cite