Betson
Generic Name
Betamethasone
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| betson 005 cream | ৳ 45.00 | N/A |
| betson 005 ointment | ৳ 48.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Betson contains Betamethasone, a potent synthetic corticosteroid with anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties. It is used to treat a wide range of inflammatory and autoimmune conditions.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initial dosage may vary from 0.5 mg to 5 mg daily, depending on the severity of the condition and patient response. It should be taken in divided doses. Maintenance dose should be the lowest effective dose.
Elderly
Similar to adult dosage, but caution should be exercised due to increased susceptibility to side effects. Initial doses should be lower.
Renal_impairment
No specific dose adjustment is usually required for mild to moderate renal impairment, but careful monitoring is advised.
How to Take
Take orally with food or milk to minimize gastrointestinal irritation. Do not stop abruptly; taper the dose under medical supervision.
Mechanism of Action
Betamethasone binds to intracellular glucocorticoid receptors, forming a complex that translocates to the nucleus and modulates gene expression. This leads to the synthesis of anti-inflammatory proteins and the inhibition of pro-inflammatory mediators, thereby reducing inflammation and immune response.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Onset of action is typically within a few hours for oral formulations.
Excretion
Excreted primarily in the urine as metabolites.
Half life
Plasma half-life is 3-5 hours, while biological half-life is 36-54 hours.
Absorption
Rapidly and well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract following oral administration.
Metabolism
Primarily metabolized in the liver by CYP3A4 enzymes.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Systemic fungal infections
- Known hypersensitivity to Betamethasone or other corticosteroids
- Administration of live or live-attenuated vaccines during immunosuppressive doses of corticosteroids
Drug Interactions
NSAIDs
Increased risk of gastrointestinal ulceration and bleeding.
Antidiabetics
May increase blood glucose levels, requiring dose adjustment of antidiabetic drugs.
Diuretics (thiazide and loop)
Increased risk of hypokalemia.
CYP3A4 Inducers (e.g., Rifampicin, Phenytoin)
May decrease Betamethasone plasma concentrations.
CYP3A4 Inhibitors (e.g., Ketoconazole, Ritonavir)
May increase Betamethasone plasma concentrations and effects.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place, below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture.
Overdose
Acute overdose is rare. Chronic overdose can lead to Cushingoid features (e.g., moon face, buffalo hump), fluid retention, hypertension, and hyperglycemia. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive; gradual withdrawal of the drug may be necessary.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Betamethasone is excreted into breast milk and may cause adverse effects in the infant; caution is advised or consider discontinuing breastfeeding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
36 months from manufacturing date
Availability
Available in pharmacies and hospitals
Approval Status
Approved
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials have established Betamethasone's efficacy and safety for its approved indications. Ongoing research explores new applications and improved formulations.
Lab Monitoring
- Blood glucose levels
- Electrolyte levels (especially potassium)
- Bone mineral density (for long-term use)
- Adrenal function tests (if discontinuing therapy)
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize gradual tapering of dose to avoid adrenal crisis.
- Monitor blood pressure, blood glucose, and electrolyte levels regularly.
- Counsel patients on bone health and infection prevention strategies.
Patient Guidelines
- Do not stop Betson abruptly; follow your doctor's instructions for tapering the dose.
- Report any unusual weight gain, swelling, or mood changes to your doctor.
- Avoid exposure to infections, especially chickenpox or measles, as corticosteroids can suppress the immune system.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Betson generally does not impair the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you experience side effects like dizziness, mood changes, or blurred vision, avoid these activities.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D to support bone health, especially with long-term use.
- Engage in regular, moderate exercise if possible.
- Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.