Active Ingredient

Each 1g of Betnovate Cream contains:

Betamethasone valerate 1.22mg, equivalent to betamethasone 1mg (0.1% w/w).
Betamethasone valerate is a potent corticosteroid that helps reduce skin inflammation and itching.

Other Ingredients

• Chlorocresol
• Macrogol cetostearyl ether
• Cetostearyl alcohol
• White soft paraffin
• Liquid paraffin
• Sodium dihydrogen phosphate dihydrate
• Phosphoric acid
• Sodium hydroxide
• Purified water

Important ingredient warnings:

• Chlorocresol may cause allergic reactions.
• Cetostearyl alcohol may cause local skin reactions, such as contact dermatitis.
• Always check the patient information leaflet for the full ingredient list.

Use Betnovate Cream exactly as prescribed by your clinician.

Adults

The usual application instructions are:

• Apply a thin layer to the affected skin.
• Gently rub in using only enough cream to cover the area.
• Apply once or twice daily, as directed.
• Wash your hands after application unless your hands are the area being treated.

Treatment is generally used for a limited period. The licensed instructions allow treatment for up to four weeks, but the prescriber may recommend a shorter course.

If symptoms improve, the prescriber may reduce the frequency of application or recommend switching to a less potent corticosteroid.

If the condition worsens or does not improve within two to four weeks, the diagnosis and treatment should be reviewed.

Using Betnovate With Moisturisers

Regular emollient use can support the skin barrier during eczema treatment.

If using Betnovate alongside a moisturiser, apply the products separately and allow sufficient time for absorption.

Important Application Precautions

• Do not apply more frequently than prescribed.
• Do not use over large areas unless specifically instructed.
• Do not cover treated skin with airtight dressings unless directed by a specialist.
• Avoid use on the face, eyelids, groin or skin folds unless specifically prescribed.
• Do not use continuously for longer than advised.

Long-term or repeated treatment may require a gradual reduction in use under medical supervision.

Possible Side Effects

• Burning or irritation at the application site
• Itching
• Local allergic reactions
• Increased skin sensitivity
• Side Effects Associated With Prolonged or Excessive Use

Using potent topical steroids for too long, too frequently or over large areas can increase the risk of:

• Thinning of the skin
• Stretch marks
• Visible small blood vessels
• Changes in skin pigmentation
• Increased hair growth
• Worsening or masking of skin infections
• Steroid-related acne-like eruptions
• Reduced effectiveness over time
• Steroid withdrawal reactions after prolonged use

Rare but Serious Effects

Significant absorption through the skin can occasionally cause systemic corticosteroid effects, including adrenal suppression or features of Cushing's syndrome.

The risk is higher with prolonged treatment, large treatment areas, damaged skin, airtight dressings and use in children.

Blurred vision or other visual disturbances should be assessed by a healthcare professional.

Stop using the cream and seek medical advice if you develop significant irritation, worsening symptoms or a suspected allergic reaction.

Storage Instructions

• Store below 25°C.
• Keep out of the sight and reach of children.
• Keep the tube closed when not in use.
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the packaging.
• Do not share prescribed medication with anyone else.
• Return unwanted or expired medicines to a pharmacy for safe disposal.

Patient Information Leaflet