Cebeta
Generic Name
Betamethasone
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| cebeta 6 mg tablet | ৳ 2.50 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Betamethasone is a potent synthetic corticosteroid with anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties. It is used to treat a wide range of conditions such as asthma, allergies, skin conditions, arthritis, and certain cancers.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initial dosage varies from 0.5-5 mg daily, depending on the severity of the condition and patient's response. Maintenance dosage should be adjusted as required. Often given in divided doses.
Elderly
Use with caution; lower doses may be required due to increased susceptibility to side effects and potential comorbidities.
Renal_impairment
No specific dose adjustment is usually required, but use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
How to Take
Orally, with or immediately after food to minimize gastrointestinal upset. Tablets should be swallowed whole with water.
Mechanism of Action
Betamethasone binds to glucocorticoid receptors in the cytoplasm, leading to a cascade of events that ultimately alter gene expression. This results in the inhibition of inflammatory mediators' release and the suppression of immune responses.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Rapid, effects usually within hours of administration.
Excretion
Excreted mainly in the urine.
Half life
Plasma half-life is 3-5 hours; biological half-life is approximately 36-54 hours.
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Peak plasma levels usually occur within 1-2 hours.
Metabolism
Primarily metabolized in the liver, largely to inactive metabolites.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Systemic fungal infections (unless specific anti-fungal treatment is being given)
- Known hypersensitivity to Betamethasone or any component of the formulation
- Administration of live or live-attenuated vaccines during high-dose corticosteroid therapy
- Untreated systemic infections
Drug Interactions
Insulin and Oral Hypoglycemics
Corticosteroids may increase blood glucose levels, necessitating dosage adjustment of antidiabetic agents.
Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)
May alter anticoagulant effect; require close monitoring of INR.
Diuretics (e.g., Thiazides, Loop diuretics)
Increased risk of potassium loss.
NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs)
Increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding and ulceration.
CYP3A4 Inhibitors (e.g., Ketoconazole, Ritonavir)
May increase corticosteroid plasma concentrations, enhancing effects and potential side effects.
CYP3A4 Inducers (e.g., Rifampicin, Phenobarbital, Phenytoin)
May decrease corticosteroid plasma concentrations, reducing efficacy.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Acute overdose is unlikely to cause life-threatening effects. Chronic overdose can lead to symptoms of Cushing's syndrome (e.g., moon face, central obesity, striae). Treatment is symptomatic and supportive; gradual withdrawal is crucial to prevent adrenal insufficiency.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Betamethasone is excreted in breast milk; infants should be observed for adverse effects if breastfeeding mothers are on high doses.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Systemic fungal infections (unless specific anti-fungal treatment is being given)
- Known hypersensitivity to Betamethasone or any component of the formulation
- Administration of live or live-attenuated vaccines during high-dose corticosteroid therapy
- Untreated systemic infections
Drug Interactions
Insulin and Oral Hypoglycemics
Corticosteroids may increase blood glucose levels, necessitating dosage adjustment of antidiabetic agents.
Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)
May alter anticoagulant effect; require close monitoring of INR.
Diuretics (e.g., Thiazides, Loop diuretics)
Increased risk of potassium loss.
NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs)
Increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding and ulceration.
CYP3A4 Inhibitors (e.g., Ketoconazole, Ritonavir)
May increase corticosteroid plasma concentrations, enhancing effects and potential side effects.
CYP3A4 Inducers (e.g., Rifampicin, Phenobarbital, Phenytoin)
May decrease corticosteroid plasma concentrations, reducing efficacy.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Acute overdose is unlikely to cause life-threatening effects. Chronic overdose can lead to symptoms of Cushing's syndrome (e.g., moon face, central obesity, striae). Treatment is symptomatic and supportive; gradual withdrawal is crucial to prevent adrenal insufficiency.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Betamethasone is excreted in breast milk; infants should be observed for adverse effects if breastfeeding mothers are on high doses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 24 to 36 months from the date of manufacture, depending on the manufacturer.
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved
Patent Status
Generic
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Betamethasone has been extensively studied in numerous clinical trials across its wide range of indications. Information regarding its efficacy and safety profile is well-established and widely available in medical literature.
Lab Monitoring
- Blood glucose levels (especially in diabetic patients)
- Electrolyte levels (particularly potassium)
- Blood pressure monitoring
- Bone mineral density (with long-term use)
- Intraocular pressure (with long-term use)
Doctor Notes
- Counsel patients on the importance of gradual tapering of the dose to avoid adrenal crisis upon discontinuation.
- Emphasize strict infection precautions due to the immunosuppressive effects of corticosteroids.
- Monitor for signs of osteoporosis, hyperglycemia, hypertension, and other metabolic complications with long-term use.
- Consider co-administration with calcium and vitamin D supplements for patients on prolonged therapy.
Patient Guidelines
- Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly without consulting your doctor, as abrupt discontinuation can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms.
- Report any signs of infection (fever, sore throat, increased pain) immediately, as your immune system may be suppressed.
- Monitor your blood sugar and blood pressure regularly as advised by your doctor.
- Avoid close contact with people who have infectious diseases (e.g., chickenpox, measles) if you have not been exposed or vaccinated.
- Carry a medical alert card if you are on long-term steroid therapy.
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 dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Betamethasone may cause dizziness or visual disturbances (e.g., blurred vision) in some patients. If affected, avoid driving or operating machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D to help manage potential weight gain and bone density issues.
- Engage in regular, moderate exercise to help prevent muscle weakness and osteoporosis.
- Avoid excessive alcohol consumption and smoking, as they can exacerbate some side effects and health risks associated with corticosteroid use.
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