Betapro
Generic Name
Betamethasone
Manufacturer
Medix Pharma
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| betapro 5 mg tablet | ৳ 10.00 | ৳ 100.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Betapro 5 mg Tablet contains Betamethasone, a potent synthetic glucocorticoid. It is used for its anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects in various conditions.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Dosage varies widely based on the condition being treated and its severity. Initial oral dose can range from 0.5 mg to 5 mg daily, often tapered for maintenance.
Elderly
Lower doses may be required, and close monitoring for side effects is recommended due to potential age-related organ impairment.
Renal_impairment
No specific dose adjustment is usually required, but caution is advised, and monitoring for fluid retention is important.
How to Take
Take the tablet orally with or after food, preferably in the morning, to minimize gastrointestinal upset and align with the body's natural corticosteroid rhythm.
Mechanism of Action
Betamethasone works by binding to intracellular glucocorticoid receptors, which then modulates gene expression. This leads to a reduction in inflammation and suppression of the immune system.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Anti-inflammatory effects typically begin within a few hours.
Excretion
Excreted mainly via the kidneys as metabolites.
Half life
Plasma half-life is 3-5 hours; biological half-life is 36-54 hours.
Absorption
Rapidly and well-absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration.
Metabolism
Primarily metabolized in the liver to inactive metabolites.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Systemic fungal infections
- Hypersensitivity to betamethasone or any component of the formulation
- Active untreated infections (unless concurrent specific anti-infective therapy is being administered)
- Administration of live vaccines (during high-dose corticosteroid therapy)
Drug Interactions
Warfarin
Effects of anticoagulants may be altered; close monitoring of INR is required.
Insulin and oral hypoglycemics
Corticosteroids may reduce their hypoglycemic effects, requiring dose adjustments.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
Increased risk of gastrointestinal ulceration and bleeding.
Diuretics (especially thiazide or loop diuretics)
Increased risk of hypokalemia.
Rifampicin, Phenytoin, Carbamazepine, Barbiturates
May increase corticosteroid metabolism, reducing its effects.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Acute overdose with corticosteroids rarely causes life-threatening problems. Chronic overdose can lead to Cushingoid features, adrenal suppression. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive; gradual withdrawal may be necessary.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Betamethasone may cross the placenta. It is excreted in breast milk; caution is advised, and infants should be monitored for adrenal suppression.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Systemic fungal infections
- Hypersensitivity to betamethasone or any component of the formulation
- Active untreated infections (unless concurrent specific anti-infective therapy is being administered)
- Administration of live vaccines (during high-dose corticosteroid therapy)
Drug Interactions
Warfarin
Effects of anticoagulants may be altered; close monitoring of INR is required.
Insulin and oral hypoglycemics
Corticosteroids may reduce their hypoglycemic effects, requiring dose adjustments.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
Increased risk of gastrointestinal ulceration and bleeding.
Diuretics (especially thiazide or loop diuretics)
Increased risk of hypokalemia.
Rifampicin, Phenytoin, Carbamazepine, Barbiturates
May increase corticosteroid metabolism, reducing its effects.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Acute overdose with corticosteroids rarely causes life-threatening problems. Chronic overdose can lead to Cushingoid features, adrenal suppression. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive; gradual withdrawal may be necessary.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Betamethasone may cross the placenta. It is excreted in breast milk; caution is advised, and infants should be monitored for adrenal suppression.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24 months from the date of manufacture
Availability
Pharmacies, hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by regulatory bodies
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Betamethasone has been extensively studied in numerous clinical trials across various indications, establishing its efficacy and safety profile over decades.
Lab Monitoring
- Blood glucose levels (especially in diabetic patients)
- Electrolyte levels (particularly potassium)
- Blood pressure monitoring
- Bone mineral density (for long-term therapy)
- Adrenal function tests (after withdrawal)
Doctor Notes
- Crucial to educate patients on the importance of not abruptly discontinuing the medication.
- Monitor patients for signs of adrenal suppression, infection, and metabolic disturbances.
- Consider bone protection strategies for long-term users.
- Regular ophthalmological examinations are recommended for prolonged therapy.
Patient Guidelines
- Do not stop Betapro suddenly; it must be tapered under medical supervision.
- Take the medicine with food to reduce stomach upset.
- Report any unusual side effects, especially signs of infection or mood changes.
- Avoid close contact with people who have infections (e.g., chickenpox, measles) while on this medication.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
Betamethasone may cause dizziness or visual disturbances in some individuals. If you experience these effects, avoid driving or operating machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a balanced diet, potentially low in sodium and rich in potassium, as advised by your doctor.
- Engage in regular, moderate exercise to help maintain bone density and muscle strength.
- Limit alcohol intake as it may exacerbate gastrointestinal irritation.
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