What is this medication for?
Betamethasone dipropionate belongs to the family of
medications known as topical corticosteroids. It is used for the topical treatment of various skin conditions that are associated with inflammation and itching. It helps to reduce redness, itching, and swelling of the skin.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Diprolene by Schering is available as:
- lotion
(augmented, topical)
- ointment
(augmented, topical)
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
Cream, ointment, or gel: Apply a sufficient quantity to completely cover the affected area as a
thin film. Massage it gently and thoroughly into skin. This medication is usually applied once or twice daily. In most cases, treatment should not continue for longer than 14 days. Do not use more
than 45 g of the cream or ointment, or 50 g of the gel per week.
Lotion: Apply a few drops of lotion to the affected area once or twice daily. The lotion should
be gently massaged into the area until it disappears. In most cases, treatment
should not continue for longer than 14 days. No more than 50 mL of lotion
should be used in one week.
The cream, ointment, lotion, and gel should not be covered
with a dressing that does not allow the area to breathe.
Application in or near the eyes should be avoided.
Store this medication at room temperature and keep it out of
the reach of children.
It is important that this medication be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Betamethasone
products that are applied to the skin should not be used by anyone who:
- is
allergic to betamethasone, other corticosteroids, or any of the
ingredients of the medication
