Betamethasone

Other Names: Beta-Val, Celestone, Diprolene, Luxiq, Betaderm, Betaject, Betnesol, Betnovate, Diprosone, Ectosone, Prevex, Taro-Sone, Topilene, Topisone, Valisone

Commonly Prescribed for: Betamethasone is a corticosteroid used to reduce swelling, redness, itching and allergic reactions. It is also prescribed to treat asthma, allergies, arthritis, Crohn disease and ulcerative colitis, as well as to treat blood disorders and adrenal glands diseases.

How to Take It: Betamethasone is injected into a muscle, joint, lesion or other body tissue. It must be given by no one but a health care professional in a hospital or a clinic. Make sure your doctor know if you have blood clotting problems, Cushing syndrome, diabetes, heart problems, high blood pressure, infections like chickenpox, fungus, herpes, measles or tuberculosis, kidney disease, liver disease, mental problems, myasthenia gravis, osteoporosis, seizure, stomach and intestinal diseases, allergic reactions to Betamethasone and corticosteroids. Do the same thing if you ar pregnant, trying to get pregnant or breastfeeding. Stay away from sick people if you take it since it may increase the risk of getting infected. You may also need to avoid immunization if taking Betamethasone. Tell your doctor about this medication before receiving any vaccine.

How It Works: Betamethasone controls protein synthesis; it depresses the polymorphonuclear leukocytes and fibroblasts migration as well as reverses capillary permeability and lysosomal stabilization at the cellular level to prevent or control inflammation.

Some Side Effects: Sometimes betamethasone usage may cause confusion, excitement, restlessness, headache, nausea, vomiting, skin problems, insomnia and weight gain. Call your doctor immediately if you are experiencing these severe side effects: allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of face, lips or tongue, black tarry stool, breathing difficulty, bulging eyes, changes in vision, fever, sore throat, infection, too frequent urinary, high blood pressure, increased thirst, pain in hips, back, ribs, arms, shoulders or legs, swelling of feet or lower legs and extreme exhaustion.