Beclometason

Beclometason, often written as beclometason or beclomethasone (beclomethasone dipropionate, BDP, in its full chemical name), is a corticosteroid used for its anti-inflammatory effects. It is available in several formulations, including inhaled, nasal spray, and topical forms. The inhaled form is used for asthma control, the nasal form for allergic rhinitis and nasal polyps, and the topical forms for inflammatory skin conditions such as dermatitis or eczema.

Beclometason works by binding to glucocorticoid receptors inside cells, altering gene transcription to reduce the production of inflammatory mediators. This leads to decreased activity and number of inflammatory cells in the airways or skin, suppression of swelling, and less mucus production in the airways. Systemic absorption from inhaled or topical preparations is generally low, but can increase with higher doses or prolonged use.

Inhaled beclometason is prescribed for maintenance therapy in asthma and can reduce the frequency of exacerbations while improving lung function when used regularly. Nasal beclometason helps alleviate sneezing, nasal itching, and congestion in allergic rhinitis. Topical beclometason creams or ointments are used for inflammatory skin conditions to reduce redness, itching, and irritation.

Common side effects include throat irritation, hoarseness, and oral candidiasis with inhaled forms, especially if mouth rinsing is not performed after use. Nasal forms can cause nasal irritation or dryness, and topical forms can lead to skin thinning or stretch marks with long-term use. Serious systemic effects are uncommon but can occur at high doses, particularly in children where growth suppression has been reported with long-term therapy.