Betamethasone and Salicylic acid are combined in this medicine.
Betamethasone + Salicylic acid is used to treat a skin condition where the top layer of the skin is covered by scales. It may also be used to treat other skin conditions that cause inflammation, redness, and itching of the skin.
Betamethasone is a moderate to very potent topical steroid. It helps relieve inflammation, redness and itching of the skin. Salicylic acid is a keratolytic agent which is used to soften the top layer of scales on the surface of the skin.
Apply Betamethasone + Salicylic acid exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not use more often, over a larger area, or for a longer period than instructed by your doctor.
This medicine is available as an ointment, lotion or solution.
If you are using the ointment, lotion, or solution, follow these steps:
- Wash your hands.
- Clean and dry the affected area before application.
- Apply a thin layer of ointment or lotion or a few drops of solution to the affected area(s) and rub gently on the skin until it disappears. Do not cover, wrap or bandage the area unless instructed by the doctor.
- Wash your hands after using.
- Replace the cap of the tube.
Avoid contact with your eyes. Rinse immediately with water if this medicine gets into your eyes. Alert your doctor if you start to have any problems with your eyes.
Do not use with occlusive dressing unless instructed by the doctor.
The dose of this medicine will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the treatment timeframe depending on your condition and response to the medication. Do not use Betamethasone + Salicylic acid longer than prescribed.
Inform your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens during treatment.
If you are using this medicine for a long time, do not stop using Betamethasone + Salicylic acid suddenly as it may worsen your condition. Once your skin condition starts to get better, your doctor will gradually reduce the dose before stopping it completely. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully.
Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose to make up for a missed dose.
If you often forget to apply your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Do not use Betamethasone + Salicylic acid if you ever had an allergic reaction (e.g. rashes, breathlessness, swollen eyes) to Betamethasone, Salicylic acid or any of its ingredients.
Alert your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- untreated skin infection caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi e.g. cold sores, genital herpes
- skin problem caused by TB (an infection known as tuberculosis)
- perioral dermatitis (spotty red rashes of the skin around your mouth)
- rosacea (skin flushing or blushing usually around your nose and cheeks)
- acne (also known as pimple)
- itching around the genital or anus
as Betamethasone + Salicylic acid may not be suitable for you.
Inform your doctor if you have psoriasis (a type of skin disease that allows the skin cells to rapidly build up causing itchy patches of thick, red skin and silvery scales).
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving Betamethasone + Salicylic acid to a child. Children may be more sensitive to the side effects.
Do not apply on skin that is broken, infected, or discharging fluid or pus.
Do not apply this medicine on the face, groin, armpits, or within skin folds unless instructed by your doctor.
To avoid burns, do not smoke or go near naked flames. Fabrics (e.g. dressing, clothing, bedding) that has been in contact with Betamethasone + Salicylic acid may burn more easily and must be washed to reduce product build-up or risk of any serious fire hazards.
If you are going to have a skin test, inform your doctor that you are using this medicine.
Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly.
Betamethasone + Salicylic acid may cause any of the following side effects: burning sensation, itching, irritation, dryness, and thinning of the skin.
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:
- changes in eyesight, blurred vision, or other visual disturbances
- confusion, feeling sleepy, frequent urination, fast breathing, fruity-smelling breath, unusual thirst or hunger
- rounding of the face, weight gain in the upper back or belly, severe headache
- severe upset stomach or throwing up, severe dizziness or passing out, muscle weakness, feeling very tired, mood changes, decreased appetite, or weight loss
If Betamethasone + Salicylic acid is used continuously over a prolonged period, a withdrawal reaction may occur in some individuals within days or weeks after stopping the treatment. Alert your doctor if you develop severe redness which can spread beyond the initial area treated, itching, burning or stinging sensation, and peeling of the skin. These could be signs of a withdrawal reaction.
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements, and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Protect from light.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.