Ulticort
Generic Name
Betamethasone Valerate 0.05% Ointment
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| ulticort 005 ointment | ৳ 120.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Betamethasone valerate is a potent corticosteroid used for the relief of inflammatory and pruritic manifestations of corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses, such as eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Apply a thin layer of Ulticort 0.05% Ointment to the affected skin area once or twice daily, as directed by a physician. Do not use for more than 7 days without medical review.
Elderly
Same as adults. Use with caution due to potentially thinner skin and increased susceptibility to side effects.
Renal_impairment
No specific dose adjustment is generally required, but systemic absorption should be monitored if extensive use is anticipated in patients with severe renal impairment.
How to Take
For external use only. Wash hands before and after applying the ointment. Apply a thin film to the affected skin area and gently rub it in. Do not apply to open wounds or broken skin. Do not cover the treated area with occlusive dressings unless specifically instructed by a doctor.
Mechanism of Action
It works by activating natural substances in the skin to reduce swelling, itching, and redness. It primarily acts as an anti-inflammatory, antipruritic, and vasoconstrictive agent.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Onset of clinical effect is generally rapid, typically within hours to a few days of initiation of therapy.
Excretion
Excreted mainly by the kidneys, with some excretion in bile.
Half life
The half-life of systemically absorbed betamethasone is approximately 5 hours; however, for topical application, the plasma half-life is not well-defined and depends on the extent of absorption.
Absorption
Systemic absorption varies with skin integrity, vehicle, occlusion, and area of application. Significant absorption can occur, particularly with prolonged use over large surface areas or under occlusive dressings.
Metabolism
Primarily metabolized in the liver to inactive metabolites.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to betamethasone valerate or any component of the ointment.
- Untreated cutaneous infections (viral, bacterial, fungal, parasitic).
- Rosacea.
- Acne vulgaris.
- Perioral dermatitis.
- Pruritus without inflammation.
- Peri-anal and genital pruritus.
- Use in children under 1 year of age.
Drug Interactions
CYP3A4 Inhibitors
Corticosteroids are metabolized by CYP3A4. Concomitant administration of potent CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ritonavir, itraconazole) can increase systemic exposure to corticosteroids, but this is rare with topical application.
Systemic Corticosteroids
Increased risk of systemic effects if used concomitantly with other systemic corticosteroids.
Storage
Store below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children. Close the cap tightly after use.
Overdose
Acute overdose is unlikely. In the case of prolonged or excessive use, features of hypercortisolism (Cushing's syndrome) may appear. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. Gradual withdrawal of the steroid may be necessary.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is not known whether topical administration of corticosteroids could result in sufficient systemic absorption to produce detectable quantities in breast milk. Use with caution in nursing mothers.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to betamethasone valerate or any component of the ointment.
- Untreated cutaneous infections (viral, bacterial, fungal, parasitic).
- Rosacea.
- Acne vulgaris.
- Perioral dermatitis.
- Pruritus without inflammation.
- Peri-anal and genital pruritus.
- Use in children under 1 year of age.
Drug Interactions
CYP3A4 Inhibitors
Corticosteroids are metabolized by CYP3A4. Concomitant administration of potent CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ritonavir, itraconazole) can increase systemic exposure to corticosteroids, but this is rare with topical application.
Systemic Corticosteroids
Increased risk of systemic effects if used concomitantly with other systemic corticosteroids.
Storage
Store below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children. Close the cap tightly after use.
Overdose
Acute overdose is unlikely. In the case of prolonged or excessive use, features of hypercortisolism (Cushing's syndrome) may appear. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. Gradual withdrawal of the steroid may be necessary.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is not known whether topical administration of corticosteroids could result in sufficient systemic absorption to produce detectable quantities in breast milk. Use with caution in nursing mothers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from the date of manufacture, depending on manufacturer specifications. Check the expiry date on the packaging.
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved
Patent Status
Generic
Clinical Trials
Betamethasone valerate is a well-established corticosteroid. Most clinical trials focus on specific dermatological conditions or comparisons with other topical steroids rather than new drug approval.
Lab Monitoring
- For prolonged or extensive use, especially in children, monitoring of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis suppression may be advisable via tests like ACTH stimulation test, plasma cortisol levels, or urinary free cortisol.
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize the importance of short-term use and avoiding application on the face, groin, or axillae without specific medical direction.
- Counsel patients on the proper application technique and the potential for local and systemic side effects with prolonged use.
- Monitor for signs of HPA axis suppression in patients on extensive or prolonged therapy.
Patient Guidelines
- Apply sparingly and thinly to the affected areas as directed.
- Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, and other mucous membranes.
- Do not use on the face, groin, or armpits unless specifically instructed by your doctor.
- Do not use for longer than prescribed, usually short-term (e.g., up to 2 weeks).
- Inform your doctor if your condition does not improve within 2 weeks or worsens.
Missed Dose Advice
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 continue with your regular schedule. Do not apply a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Ulticort 0.05% Ointment is for topical use and is not expected to affect the ability to drive or operate machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Keep the affected skin clean and moisturized with emollients as recommended by your doctor to help manage dry skin conditions.
- Avoid known irritants or allergens that trigger your skin condition.
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