Betamethason

Betamethason, also spelled betamethasone in many languages, is a potent synthetic glucocorticoid used for its anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects. It works by regulating gene expression to reduce the production of inflammatory mediators and dampen the immune response. Betamethasone exists in several ester and salt forms, with topical preparations such as betamethone dipropionate and betamethionate valerate being common for skin conditions; systemic forms are used when stronger or broader control is needed.

Medical uses are broad and depend on formulation. Topical betamethasone is used for inflammatory and pruritic skin disorders, including eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, and lichen planus, with potency varying by preparation. Systemic betamethasone can be employed for severe inflammatory or autoimmune diseases when other treatments are ineffective or inappropriate. In obstetrics, betamethasone is administered intramuscularly to accelerate fetal lung maturation in cases of threatened preterm birth, typically as two injections of 12 mg given 24 hours apart.

Side effects and safety considerations are influenced by dose, duration, and route. Local topical use can cause skin thinning, stretch marks, or easy bruising. Systemic or prolonged use may lead to suppression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, weight gain, osteoporosis, hyperglycemia, high blood pressure, growth retardation in children, and increased infection risk. Long-term ocular exposure may contribute to cataracts or glaucoma. Betamethasone should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed, and exposure should be minimized when possible. Contraindications include systemic fungal infections and known hypersensitivity; caution is advised with active infections, peptic ulcers, or in patients receiving certain vaccines. Brand names vary by country, but the product is generally used under medical supervision.