Betnovate Ointment is a topical corticosteroid used to treat various inflammatory and pruritic skin conditions, including eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis. The ointment formulation is designed to provide a protective barrier, locking in moisture and offering prolonged relief from symptoms.
Dr Sarah Thornton MbChB, Coaching Academy diploma with distinction
GP, Medical coach
What is Betnovate Ointment?
Betnovate contains betamethasone valerate, a type of steroid medication. This medicine helps to decrease swelling and irritation. Betnovate is used to alleviate redness and itching associated with various skin conditions, including eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis.
What is the active ingredient in Betnovate ointment?
Betnovate contains a medicine called betamethasone valerate 0.1%.
What is Betnovate Ointment used for?
Betnovate is a topical steroid used to treat inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema. Its active ingredient, betamethasone valerate, is a potent corticosteroid and is typically used when milder topical steroids have not been effective. Betnovate is applied directly to the affected area and absorbs quickly, helping to control skin redness and inflammation during flare-ups. It is not intended for long-term use but rather for managing acute symptoms. Betnovate is available in 30g and 100g sizes in both cream and ointment forms.
For eczema or dermatitis affecting the scalp, specialized treatments such as Betnovate Scalp Application, Betacap Solution, or Elocon Scalp Lotion are recommended instead.
Betnovate and Insect Bites: While Betnovate is primarily used for chronic inflammatory conditions like eczema and dermatitis, it can also be applied to reduce inflammation from insect bites.
How does Betnovate Oinment work?
Corticosteroids, including betamethasone valerate (the active ingredient in Betnovate), are anti-inflammatory agents. When the skin becomes inflamed, it is usually due to the body's release of inflammatory chemicals in response to allergens or irritants. These chemicals cause blood vessels to dilate, leading to swelling, itchiness, and discomfort. Corticosteroids work by suppressing this inflammatory response, preventing cells from releasing excessive amounts of these substances.
How do you use Betnovate Ointment?
Always follow your doctor's instructions precisely when using this medicine. If you have any doubts, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Using this medicine
Typically, Betnovate should be applied once or twice daily. Your doctor may advise reducing the frequency as your skin improves.
This ointment is for external use only.
Apply only the prescribed amount.
Avoid using on large areas of the body for extended periods (such as daily for several weeks or months) unless directed by your doctor.
Since germs thrive in warm, moist environments, clean the skin before applying a fresh dressing or bandage.
If you’re applying the ointment to someone else, wash your hands thoroughly afterward or use disposable plastic gloves.
If there is no improvement in your skin condition within 2 to 4 weeks, consult your doctor.
Instructions for applying the ointment
Start by washing your hands thoroughly.
Apply a thin layer of the ointment to the affected areas and gently rub it in until fully absorbed. Use your fingertip to measure the amount of Betnovate needed. For children, use less ointment but still measure with an adult fingertip unit. Refer to the provided pictogram for a visual guide of one fingertip unit.
If you are not applying the ointment to your hands, wash them again after use.
Application guide for adults
Face and Neck: 2 ½ fingertip units
Back: 7 fingertip units
Front: 7 fingertip units
One Arm (excluding the hand): 3 fingertip units
Both Sides of One Hand: 1 fingertip unit
One Leg (excluding the foot): 6 fingertip units
One Foot: 2 fingertip units
Adjust the amount slightly if needed, as these are approximate guidelines.
For children aged 1 – 10
Number of Fingertip Units Needed:
Age
Face and Neck
Arm and Hand
Leg and Foot
Front
Back (Including Buttocks)
1-2 years
1 ½
1 ½
2
2
3
3-5 years
1 ½
2
3
3
3 ½
6-10 years
2
2 ½
4 ½
3 ½
5
Children Under 1 Year: Betnovate should not be used.
Dosage: It is crucial not to exceed the prescribed amount for children.
Treatment Duration: Treatment for a child should not typically exceed 5 days, unless specifically directed by your doctor.
For Psoriasis: If you have thick psoriasis patches on elbows or knees, your doctor may recommend applying the ointment under an airtight dressing at night to enhance its effectiveness. After a short period, you can apply the ointment as usual.
Applying to the Face: Only use Betnovate on the face if instructed by your doctor. It should not be used for more than 5 days due to the risk of thinning skin on the face. Avoid contact with the eyes.
If You Use Too Much Betnovate: Applying more Betnovate than prescribed or accidentally swallowing it could cause adverse effects. Contact your doctor or go to the nearest hospital immediately for assistance.
If You Miss a Dose: If you forget to apply Betnovate, do so as soon as you remember. If it's nearly time for your next application, skip the missed dose and apply the next dose at the scheduled time.
If You Stop Using Betnovate: If you have been using Betnovate regularly, consult your doctor before discontinuing it, as stopping abruptly could worsen your condition.
For any additional questions about this medication, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Who should not use Betnovate Ointment?
Do not use Betnovate
If you are allergic (hypersensitive) to betamethasone valerate or any other ingredients in Betnovate (listed in Section 6).
On a child under 1 year old.
To treat any of the following skin problems, as it could worsen them:
Acne
Severe flushing of skin on and around your nose (rosacea)
Spotty red rash around your mouth (perioral dermatitis)
Itching around your back passage or private parts
Infected skin (unless the infection is also being treated with an anti-infective medicine)
Itchy skin that is not inflamed.
If any of the above apply to you, do not use Betnovate. If you are unsure, consult your doctor or pharmacist before using it.
Warnings and Precautions: Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before using Betnovate if you have previously had an allergic reaction to another steroid.
You are applying the ointment under an airtight dressing, including a child’s nappy. These dressings can enhance the absorption of the active ingredient, potentially leading to overuse.
You have psoriasis, as your doctor will want to monitor you more frequently.
You are using it for a chronic leg ulcer, as there may be an increased risk of local allergic reactions or infections.
You are applying it to a large surface area.
You are applying the ointment on broken skin or within skin folds.
You are applying it near the eyes or on the eyelids, as cataracts or glaucoma may result if the ointment repeatedly enters the eye.
You have an infection of the skin, as this will need to be treated concurrently.
You are applying it to thin skin, such as on the face or on children, as their skin is thinner and may absorb larger amounts.
Do not use dressings or bandages on children or on the face where the ointment is applied. Use on children or on the face should be limited to 5 days.
Contact your doctor if you experience blurred vision or other visual disturbances. If your condition worsens during use, consult your prescriber, as you may be experiencing an allergic reaction, have an infection, or require a different treatment.
Do not smoke or go near naked flames due to the risk of severe burns. Fabrics (clothing, bedding, dressings, etc.) that have been in contact with this product burn more easily and pose a serious fire hazard. Washing clothing and bedding may reduce product build-up but may not completely remove it.
If you are unsure if any of the above apply to you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before using this medicine.
If your condition recurs shortly after stopping treatment, within 2 weeks, do not restart using the cream or ointment without consulting your prescriber, unless previously advised otherwise. If your condition has resolved but then recurs with redness extending beyond the initial treatment area and you experience a burning sensation, seek medical advice before restarting treatment.
Pregnancy, breastfeeding, and fertility
If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, think you may be pregnant or are planning to have a baby, consult your doctor or pharmacist for advice before using this medicine.
What are the side effects of Betnovate Ointment?
Like all medications, this medicine may cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them.
Stop using Betnovate and contact your doctor immediately if:
Your skin condition worsens, you develop a widespread rash, or your skin becomes swollen during treatment. This may indicate an allergic reaction, an infection, or a need for different treatment.
You have psoriasis and develop raised bumps with pus under the skin. This rare condition, which can occur during or after treatment, is known as pustular psoriasis.
Other side effects you may experience while using Betnovate include:
Common (may affect up to 1 in 10 people)
• a feeling of burning, pain, irritation or itching where the ointment is applied
Very rare (may affect up to 1 in 10,000 people)
Increased risk of infection
Allergic skin reaction at the application site
Rash, itchy bumpy skin, or skin redness
Thinning and dryness of the skin, which may also become more prone to damage or wrinkling
Development of stretch marks
More visible blood vessels under the skin's surface
Changes in hair growth, including increased or reduced hair growth or hair loss, and changes in skin color
Weight gain, rounding of the face
Delayed weight gain or slowed growth in children
Bones may become thin, weak, and fracture easily
Cloudy lens in the eye (cataract) or increased eye pressure (glaucoma)
Decreased cortisol levels in the blood
Increased blood sugar levels or sugar in the urine
High blood pressure
Not known (frequency cannot be estimated from the available data)
Blurred vision
Steroid withdrawal reaction: Prolonged use can lead to a withdrawal reaction that may differ from the original condition. This can occur during treatment or within days to weeks after stopping and may include: redness extending beyond the initial treatment area, burning or stinging sensation, intense itching, peeling skin, oozing open sores.
Corticosteroid creams, ointments, and other topical preparations are available in four potencies: mild, moderately potent, potent, or very potent. Healthcare professionals typically refer to potency rather than strength. A potent corticosteroid has a much stronger effect than a mild one when using the same amount. The percentage of active ingredient on product packaging does not indicate potency. Betnovate Ointment is classified as a potent corticosteroid. Your healthcare professional will prescribe or recommend a steroid of the appropriate potency for your condition.
Reporting side effects
If you experience any side effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. This includes any potential side effects not listed in this leaflet. You can also report side effects directly via the Yellow Card Scheme website: www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or by searching for "MHRA Yellow Card" in the Google Play or Apple App Store.
By reporting side effects, you help provide more information on the safety of this medicine.
A feeling of burning, pain, irritation, or itching at the application site.
Does Betnovate Ointment interact with any other medicines?
Betnovate ointment, like other topical corticosteroids, may interact with other medications. While the risk of systemic interactions is lower compared to oral medications, it’s still important to be aware of potential interactions, especially if using other treatments on the same area of skin. Here are some key points to consider:
Other Topical Medications: Using multiple topical medications in the same area can increase the risk of skin irritation or exacerbate side effects. Always consult your healthcare provider before combining treatments.
Systemic Corticosteroids: If you are taking systemic corticosteroids (oral or injectable), using Betnovate ointment may increase the overall corticosteroid load, potentially heightening the risk of systemic side effects such as immunosuppression or adrenal suppression.
Cytochrome P450 Inhibitors: Medications that inhibit cytochrome P450 enzymes (such as ritonavir and itraconazole) may increase the levels of corticosteroids in the body, potentially enhancing systemic side effects.
Vaccines: Corticosteroids can suppress the immune system. If you are receiving vaccinations, particularly live vaccines, the effectiveness of the vaccine may be reduced, and there may be an increased risk of infection.
Other Immunosuppressive Drugs: Combining Betnovate with other immunosuppressive drugs can further suppress the immune system, increasing the risk of infections.
Always inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and herbal products. They can provide personalized advice and help manage potential interactions.
Betnovate Ointment FAQs
What is the difference between Betnovate Cream and Ointment?
Difference between Betnovate Ointment and Cream
Formulation and texture
Betnovate Ointment: The ointment has a greasy texture, making it thicker and more occlusive. It is designed to create a barrier on the skin, which helps to lock in moisture. This makes it suitable for very dry, scaly, or thickened areas of skin.
Betnovate Cream: The cream has a lighter, less greasy consistency compared to the ointment. It is designed to be more easily absorbed into the skin, making it suitable for weeping or moist areas of skin and for use on hairy areas.
Absorption and use
Betnovate Ointment: Due to its occlusive nature, the ointment is slower to absorb but provides longer-lasting moisture. It is ideal for treating chronic, dry, and thickened skin conditions.
Betnovate Cream: The cream is absorbed more quickly, which can be more comfortable for use during the day or on larger surface areas. It is better for acute, moist, or weepy skin conditions.
Suitability for different skin types
Betnovate Ointment: Best suited for dry and scaly skin conditions as it helps to hydrate and soften the skin.
Betnovate Cream: Better suited for oily or normal skin types, or areas of the skin that are more sensitive or prone to irritation.
Application areas
Betnovate Ointment: Typically used on areas of the body where the skin is thick and dry, such as elbows, knees, and feet.
Betnovate Cream: Can be used on more sensitive areas or where the skin folds, such as the face, armpits, and groin.
Efficacy
Both Betnovate ointment and cream contain the same active ingredient (betamethasone valerate) and are equally effective in terms of their anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties. The choice between them depends on the specific nature and location of the skin condition being treated.
Patient preference
Betnovate Ointment: Some patients may prefer the ointment for its long-lasting moisturizing effects, especially at night.
Betnovate Cream: Others may prefer the cream for its lighter feel and quicker absorption, making it more convenient for use during the day.
In summary, the choice between Betnovate ointment and cream depends on the specific skin condition, the area of application, and personal preference. Your healthcare provider can help determine which formulation is best suited for your particular needs.
Can I use Betnovate Ointment for my acne?
Betnovate is not suitable for treating acne or acne scars, and using it for such purposes could potentially worsen the condition.
What is Betnovate ointment used for?
Betnovate ointment is used to treat various skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, and other inflammatory skin disorders. It helps to reduce inflammation, redness, and itching.
How should I apply Betnovate ointment?
Apply a thin layer of Betnovate ointment to the affected area of the skin once or twice daily, as directed by your healthcare provider. Gently rub it in until fully absorbed. Wash your hands after application unless they are being treated.
Can I use Betnovate ointment on my face?
Betnovate ointment should be used on the face only under the supervision of a healthcare provider, as the skin on the face is more sensitive and prolonged use can cause side effects such as thinning of the skin.
How long can I use Betnovate ointment?
The duration of Betnovate ointment use should be as short as possible, typically no longer than a few weeks. Long-term use can lead to side effects such as skin thinning, stretch marks, and increased risk of infections. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions.
What are the common side effects of Betnovate ointment?
Common side effects include a burning or stinging sensation, itching, and irritation at the application site. If these symptoms persist or worsen, contact your healthcare provider.
Can Betnovate ointment be used on children?
Betnovate ointment can be used on children, but it should be done with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare provider. Children may be more susceptible to side effects, and the treatment duration should be as short as possible.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not apply extra ointment to make up for the missed dose.
Can I use Betnovate ointment if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your healthcare provider before using Betnovate ointment. They will weigh the potential risks and benefits to determine if it is safe for you to use.
Are there any drug interactions with Betnovate ointment?
While systemic interactions are less common with topical use, it is important to inform your healthcare provider of all medications you are taking, including other topical treatments. Certain medications, such as systemic corticosteroids, can increase the risk of side effects.
What should I do if I experience severe side effects or an allergic reaction?
If you experience severe side effects such as worsening of your skin condition, a generalized rash, swelling, or signs of an allergic reaction (such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat), stop using Betnovate ointment and seek medical attention immediately.