Betnovate (Cream, Ointment, Lotion)

Betnovate is a prescription steroidal eczema and psoriasis treatment available in the form of a cream, ointment, lotion, or scalp application. It contains the active ingredient betamethasone valerate, a type of corticosteroid (steroid).

Manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline, it was first launched in Europe in 1963 and has maintained its popularity to this day, helping millions around the world effectively manage their skin conditions.

When applied to the affected area, Betnovate acts directly on the immune system to reduce inflammation, redness, itching and discomfort caused by your condition.

At euroClinix, we prescribe Betnovate cream and lotion specifically to treat eczema and psoriasis.

Betnovate contains the active ingredient betamethasone valerate—a potent steroid that works directly on the affected area to quickly reduce symptoms of inflammatory skin conditions. Betamethasone corticosteroid cream works in the following way to ease your symptoms:

How Betnovate works

Betamethasone valerate: understanding the science

Betnovate works in 4 core ways to effectively manage your skin condition:

Reduces inflammation

Reduces inflammation by blocking the release of chemicals that cause redness, swelling, and irritation.

This helps relieve discomfort quickly.

Suppresses immune response

Calms your body's immune system, which is often overactive in those with skin conditions. This helps break the "itch-scratch cycle".

Slows skin cell growth

Reduces the speed at which skin cells multiply. This is especially helpful for conditions like psoriasis where skin cells grow too quickly, causing thick, scaly patches.

Shrinks blood vessels

Temporarily makes tiny blood vessels in your skin smaller, which reduces blood flow to irritated areas. This helps decrease redness, warmth, and swelling in affected skin.

By targeting your condition in these ways, Betnovate provides quick and lasting relief, helping restore comfort and confidence in your skin.

Using Betnovate for eczema or psoriasis can benefit your skin greatly.

A powerful topical corticosteroid

Anti-inflammatory properties

Betnovate reduces inflammation, redness, and itching associated with eczema and psoriasis, reducing discomfort and healing skin quickly.

Fast symptom relief

Betnovate typically begins to alleviate symptoms within 24-48 hours of application, providing quick relief from discomfort.

Easy application

Betnovate is simple to apply. Whether you are using the cream, ointment, lotion, or scalp application, simply apply to the affected area and see the benefits over time.

Patient satisfaction

Studies show patients tend to prefer Betamethasone valerate over alternatives for its superior smell, consistency, smearing quality, and skin penetration.

Eases discomfort

Soothes irritation and redness, affording you comfort and allowing you to complete your day-to-day activities without hassle.

Betnovate is highly effective in treating various skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis. Its easy-to-apply topical formulation works exactly where it is needed, and most people begin to see results within days.

Clinical trials have proven the efficacy of betamethasone, the active ingredient in Betnovate, in the treatment of skin psoriasis and scalp psoriasis.

This medication is not suitable for everyone. When you complete a consultation, our UK-registered doctors will determine whether Betnovate is safe for you.

Who can take it?

Betnovate is a prescription-only medicine. To be prescribed Betnovate from euroClinix, you must be over 18 years of age and suffering from eczema or psoriasis.

Who cannot take it?

You cannot take Betnovate if:

• You are allergic to betamethasone valerate or any other ingredient in this medicine
• You are treating one of the following skin conditions:
  • Acne
  • Rosacea
  • Dermatitis around your mouth
  • Itching around the back passage or private parts
  • Infected skin (unless treated with a medicine that fights infection at the same time)
  • Itchy skin which is not inflamed

Cautions

Additionally, there are some conditions that require further consideration before a doctor can prescribe Betnovate. Tell us in your consultation if you:

• Have previously had an allergic reaction to another steroid
• Are applying the cream under an airtight dressing
• Have a chronic leg ulcer
• Are applying to a large area
• Are applying to broken skin or skin folds
• Are applying near the eyes
• Have an infection of the skin
• Are applying to the face

Please disclose your health status during your online consultation with euroClinix. Our medical team will evaluate whether Betnovate is suitable for you and may adjust your medications if needed.

To use Betnovate correctly, follow the dosage and treatment course our medical team prescribes. This ensures the drug's effectiveness and helps avoid side effects.

Betnovate cream, lotion, and ointment

The instructions for applying Betnovate cream, lotion, and ointment are the same.

How to apply Betnovate to the body

	Wash your hands
	Apply a thin layer to the affected area(s)
	Gently rub it into the skin until it has all disappeared
	Unless treating your hands, wash them again after use
If your doctor has instructed you to use Betnovate more than once a day, repeat these steps when instructed to and follow their advice throughout treatment.

How much should I use?

Different parts of the body require different amounts of Betnovate. As a general guide, apply the cream based on the recommended fingertip units for each body part, as shown below:

Important: If you apply too much or accidentally swallow Betnovate in any form, it can make you ill. Seek immediate medical help if this happens.

Betnovate scalp application

The instructions for the scalp application are slightly different.

How to apply Betnovate to the scalp

	Wash your hands
	Unscrew the bottle cap and point the nozzle at the affected area
	Cover the area with a thin and even layer of liquid
	You can rub the liquid in or leave it as it is
	Wash your hands again
If your doctor has instructed you to use Betnovate more than once a day, repeat these steps when instructed to and follow their advice throughout treatment.

Which one should I use?

Choosing the right form depends on the area and type of skin condition you're treating:

• Cream: Ideal for moist or weeping skin.
• Lotion: Best for large or hairy areas.
• Ointment: Suitable for dry, thick, or scaly patches.
• Scalp Application: For eczema or psoriasis on the scalp.

When should I use it?

You can apply your medicine at any time, so choose a time that you can be consistent with. If you are applying it twice or more daily, spread each dose out throughout the day.

For example, if applying twice daily, do it once in the morning and once in the evening.

What if I miss a dose?

If you forget to apply it, do so as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, forget the missed one and apply the next at the usual time.

Do not apply extra to make up for a forgotten dose.

Betnovate usually starts to reduce inflammation and itching within a few days. However, it may take 1 to 2 weeks to see noticeable improvement in skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis.

Consult your doctor if you don’t see any improvement after 2 weeks or your symptoms worsen.

While most people will see significant improvement within 2 weeks, it can be used for up to 4 weeks at a time. Any longer than this and you risk your condition worsening or side effects presenting.

Consult your doctor for personalised advice on how long you should use treatment for.

To ensure treatment is as effective as possible, consider making the following changes to your routine when using Betnovate.

Your Betnovate skin care guide

Sun protection

Minimise sun exposure on treated areas. Use a high-SPF sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors.

Protect your skin

Avoid harsh soaps and any emollients, as these may worsen your condition.

Avoid triggers

Identify and avoid potential skin irritants such as certain fabrics, detergents, or environmental factors that may make your condition worse.

No tight dressings

Avoid using tight bandages or clothing that can restrict skin movement and potentially worsen irritation.

Modify your diet

Consider adopting an anti-inflammatory diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon and flaxseeds, and eat less processed foods.

To improve skin health, incorporate anti-inflammatory foods like omega-3-rich fish and brightly-coloured fruits into your diet while steering clear of refined sugars, alcohol, and allergens that may provoke flare-ups such as gluten and dairy.

Silvia Fonda Nutritionist

Betnovate side effects are mostly mild and should go away within a few days of use. Short-term use is unlikely to cause serious side effects, however, using it for a long time can increase the risk of side effects drastically.

Overusing potent corticosteroids like Betnovate can cause skin thinning, stretch marks, and adrenal gland problems, and stopping treatment suddenly can cause steroid withdrawal, which risks symptoms worsening.

Tell your doctor about any side effects you experience, including the following.

Common side effects

Very rare side effects

This does not mention all side effects. For a comprehensive list, consult the patient information leaflet.

Only a thin layer of cream or ointment is needed to effectively treat your condition, and this will reduce the risk of side effects. If side effects persist, talk to your doctor about switching to a milder treatment.

Dr. Caroline Fontana Lead Prescribing Doctor

Some medicines may affect how Betnovate works or increase the risk of side effects. Most notably, medicines that inhibit an enzyme called CYP3A4 can impact the effectiveness of this drug.

Tell your doctor about any other medicine you take, including:

• HIV medications (e.g., ritonavir, cobicistat)
• Antifungal medications (e.g., itraconazole, ketoconazole)
• Other steroidal treatments (e.g., steroid tablets, asthma inhalers, nasal sprays)

This list does not cover all possible interactions. For a comprehensive list, please visit the interactions checker on Drugs.com.

Follow the advice in this table to use Betnovate effectively and safely.

Safety Tips

Pregnancy Consult your doctor

If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before using Betamethasone to assess potential risks and benefits.

Breastfeeding Consult your doctor

If you are breastfeeding, consult your doctor before using Betamethasone. Avoid applying it to the breast area to prevent accidental ingestion by the infant.

Alcohol Safe

There is no specific information regarding alcohol consumption while using Betamethasone, so it is generally safe.

Driving Safe

Betamethasone is not known to impair your ability to drive or operate machinery.

Protective dressings Caution

Avoid covering the treated area with tight dressings unless directed by a doctor, as this can increase absorption and risk of side effects. If advised to use dressings, follow your doctor's instructions carefully.

Fire safety Caution

Betnovate is flammable. Avoid applying it near naked flames or heat sources like cigarettes. Ensure skin is dry before exposure to fire.

Application Instructions Caution

Avoid applying Betamethasone to sensitive areas such as the face, groin, or armpits unless directed by a doctor, as it may cause skin thinning. Do not use on broken or infected skin.

Betnovate cream, lotion and scalp application

Follow these guidelines when storing the cream, lotion or scalp application:

• Store below 25°C in the original packaging
• Keep this medicine out of the sight and reach of children
• Do not use this medicine after the expiry date

Betnovate ointment

The guidelines for storing the ointment are the same as for the cream, except for the temperature. Betnovate ointment should be stored below 30°C in the original packaging.

Disposal

Do not throw away medicines via wastewater or household waste.

Take any unused medication to your local pharmacy for proper disposal. These measures help to protect the environment.

No, you cannot buy Betnovate over the counter. This medication can only be obtained with a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.

Prescriptions are necessary because they:

• Ensure appropriate use for your specific condition.
• Prevent potential misuse and associated health risks.
• Allow for monitoring of side effects and interactions with other medications.

Ordering Betnovate online from euroClinix is convenient.

Follow these simple steps:

1. Complete a quick online consultation to check your eligibility.
2. UK-registered doctors review your responses to ensure the medication is right for you.
3. Upon approval, an e-prescription will be issued.
4. Enjoy free delivery from our licensed pharmacy with tracking details.

Your privacy is our top priority. euroClinix uses secure, encrypted transactions and complies with UK medical standards to keep your information confidential.

Start your online consultation today to enjoy professional care from the comfort of your home.

euroClinix is trusted by thousands of users in the UK for its safe and convenient service. Here’s why:

• Experienced doctors manage your consultations and prescriptions.
• Online consultations, swift approvals, and discreet doorstep delivery make ordering quick and convenient.
• A supportive team is on hand to answer treatment-related questions or concerns.
• Patients can manage their prescriptions hassle-free through our secure platform.

Join thousands who trust euroClinix for their healthcare needs and take control of your health today.

The price of Betnovate at euroClinix includes everything you need:

• Free online consultation with our experienced doctors
• Free prescription, if approved
• Free delivery straight to your door

Our pricing is transparent, with no hidden fees. Order today and benefit from our complete, all-inclusive service.

If Betnovate isn’t right for you, other treatments at euroClinix might be better suited to your needs.