betamethasone dipropionate

Only use betamethasone as directed by your provider and for the skin condition they prescribed it for. This medication might not work for all skin problems.

Apply betamethasone to the outside of your skin only. Don't apply it in your eyes or genitals.

Wash your hands after each time you apply betamethasone.

Don't use more than one corticosteroid-containing medication(s) at one time without talking to your provider, because it can raise your risk of side effects.

Let your provider know if you experience any skin irritation, side effects, or vision changes.

If you're applying betamethasone on your child's diaper area, don't use tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants to avoid skin irritation.

Sernivo spray: Shake the bottle well before using. Throw the medication bottle away after 4 weeks to make sure that you aren't using it for longer than directed.

Betamethasone foam for the scalp: Make sure you turn the can upside down to get the medication out, and dispense the medication onto a saucer or other cool, clean surface. Don't put the foam directly onto your hands, because it can start melting into your hands before you can use it. Once the medication is out on a surface, pick up small amounts with your fingers and gently massage into the affected area until the foam disappears. Repeat the process for the entire affected scalp area. Don't wash the treated area right after applying the foam.

The betamethasone foam is flammable and can catch on fire, so keep the medication away from fire, open flame, or direct heat. Don't smoke while using or holding the can.

Let your provider know if you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant. It's not known if betamethasone can harm your unborn baby. Using a large amount of certain formulations of betamethasone, like the augmented forms and Sernivo spray, or using them for a long period of time during pregnancy can raise the risk of low birth weight in infants. If you have to use this medication while pregnant, apply it on the smallest area of the skin and use for the shortest period of time possible. Discuss with your provider about the risks and benefits of using betamethasone while pregnant.

It's not known if this medication can pass into your breastmilk, so discuss the risks with your provider before breastfeeding. If you have to use betamethasone while breastfeeding, don't apply it directly on the nipple and areola (skin around the nipple).