Betnovate C 0.12/3 % Cream 15 Gm

Betnovate-C Cream is a topical medicine used for the treatment of various inflammatory skin conditions, including eczema, psoriasis and dermatitis. It is often used where there is or may be an infection, as well as inflammation. It contains two main ingredients namely Betamethasone and Clioquinol.

Betamethasone is a steroid and Clioquinol is an anti-infective agnent. This cream works by reducing redness, itchiness and inflammation in the affected area. It also helps to prevent or clear up some bacterial or fungal infections of the skin.

The use of this cream should be avoided in pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers. It should be used cautiously if prescribed for children under 12 years of age.

Dosage

Overdose

• Betnovate-C cream is meant for external application, the cases of overdose are unlikely. However, upon accidental ingestion, visit the nearest hospital or contact your doctor immediately.
• If you have overapplied, wipe out the excess medicine with tissue or cotton. The excessive use for a prolonged duration is not advised as it can lead to hormonal issues.

Missed a Dose

If you have missed an application of Betnovate-C cream, apply it as soon as possible. Do not overapply to compensate for the missed application.

Mode of Action

How Does It Work?

• Betamethasone reduces the inflammation, swelling and redness of the skin by blocking the production of certain chemical messengers called prostaglandins.
• Clioquinol reduces skin infections caused by bacteria. It inhibits certain enzymes involved in the DNA synthesis of bacteria resulting in the death of bacteria. It is also effective against some fungal skin infections.

Directions for Use

• Use Betnovate-C Cream as directed by your doctor.
• Apply it on a healthy skin surface free from cuts and wounds.
• A thin layer of cream should be applied.
• Gently rub this cream on the body surface.
• Apply the cream only in the affected area.
• Wash your hands before and after using this medicine, unless your hands are the area to be treated.
• Avoid touching the tip of the container directly to the infected area.
• In case your eyes come in contact with this medicine, rinse your eyes with clean water immediately.

Precautions and Warnings

Pregnancy

Can I apply Betnovate-C cream during pregnancy?

The use of the Betnovate-C cream is not recommended during pregnancy as it may affect the development of the baby. In case you are prescribed this medicine, avoid using it on larger skin areas for a prolonged duration.

Breast Feeding

Can I apply Betnovate-C cream while breastfeeding?

Betnovate-C cream should not be applied to the breast or areas near the breast of breastfeeding mothers as there can be chances of ingestion of this by the breastfed infant. Avoid using it on large areas of skin or for a prolonged period.

Driving

Can I drive if I have applied Betnovate-C cream?

Betnovate-C cream is a topical preparation and may not affect the driving ability or ability to handle types of machinery.

Alcohol

Can I consume alcohol with Betnovate-C cream?

There is no information available on the interactions of Betnovate-C cream when taken with alcohol. However, consuming alcohol might delay the healing and clearance of infection.

Other General Warnings

Talk to your doctor if

• You have developed itching, rash, difficulty breathing or fainting after application of Betnovate C, immediately seek medical help as this could be an allergic reaction.
• You have observed skin thinning, stretch marks or blood vessels visible under your skin, inform your doctor.
• You are applying this cream under an airtight dressing, including a child’s nappy ensure to clean the area before each dressing to prevent infections.
• Avoid applying it near chronic leg ulcer as it can increase the risk of local allergic reaction or infection around the ulcer.
• You are applying on a large surface area of skin for a long time, it can cause hormonal issues leading to weight gain, hair loss, skin wrinkling and skin dryness.
• Avoid using it for any skin infection unless prescribed by your doctor as it can worsen some skin infections.
• Avoid applying this cream near eyes or on eyelids, as cataracts or glaucoma may result if the cream repeatedly enters the eye.
• You are applying it to thin skin such as the face or on children as their skin is thinner than adults and as a result, it may absorb larger amounts which can lead to hormonal issues.
• If the underlying condition is worsening, inform your doctor

Contraindications

• If you are allergic to Betamethasone, Clioquinol, or any other ingredients of this cream.
• If you have or had an allergy to any creams or ointments.
• This cream should not be used for skin conditions other than for what it has been prescribed, as it could make them worse. It can worsen acne, herpes, chickenpox, or ringworm. It should not be used around the anus or private parts.
• It should not be used in children under one year of age, do not use it for nappy rash.
• Do not use it if you are pregnant.

Side effects

• Burning sensation
• Skin itching
• Redness
• Skin rashes
• Pigmentation
• Excessive hair growth
• Local thinning of skin and appearance of stretch marks
• Change in skin colour
• Skin dryness

Interactions

Interactions with other medicines

• Betnovate-C Cream is to be used externally on the skin, it is less likely to interact with other medicines. However, you should always consult your doctor if you are taking other medicines for treating other health conditions.
• Some medicines may interfere with Betnovate-C like Vigabatrin (a medicine for the treatment of epilepsy), Ritonavir (a medicine for the treatment of HIV) and Itraconazole (a medicine for the treatment of fungal infections).

Storage and disposal

• Store Betnovate C cream at room temperature away from direct sunlight and moisture.
• Once this cream is opened, it should not be reused after a gap of a few months.
• Keep out of reach from children and pets.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How to use Betnovate-C cream?

Apply Betnovate-C cream in a clean area by gently rubbing and let it firmly absorb into the skin. Always wash your hands before and after applying this medicine.

Can I use Betnovate C cream on my face?

Your face is an area where the skin is very delicate and thin. Therefore, you should always consult your doctor before using Betnovate C cream directly on your face. Moreover, it also contains a steroid which can cause thinning of the skin.

Can Betnovate-C cream be used for acne and pimples?

No, Betnovate-C cream should not be used for acne and pimples or any skin conditions for which the root cause is not clear. It can worsen acne. Betnovate-C cream should be used only if your doctor has prescribed it for you.

Can Betnovate-C skin cream be used for burns?

No, Betnovate-C cream should not be used on burns and damaged skin.

For how long can I use Betnovate C cream?

Use Betnovate C cream for the duration as prescribed by your doctor. Prolonged use for more than 4 weeks is not recommended as it contains a steroid. This steroid can be absorbed into the skin over prolonged use and result in skin damage and hormonal issues.

Betnovate C cream has been expired. Can I use this expired medicine?

Do not use any medicine after the expiry date on the label. The expiry date refers to the last day of that month.

Can Betnovate C cream be used for dark spots?

No, Betnovate C cream cannot be used for treatment of dark spots.

Can I use Betnovate C for Ringworm?

No, it is not recommended to use this cream for Ringworm. This cream should be used only for the conditions that it is prescribed for. Using the cream for any other conditions can lead to worsening of the skin disease. Hence it is important to consult a doctor and avoid self-medication.