Generic Betamethasone Valerate Ointment 0.1%

Steroid topical treatment for eczema and psoriasis

Reduces inflammation

Generic Betamethasone Valerate Ointment 0.1% (e.g. Audavate) contains a medicine called Betamethasone Valerate which belongs to a group of medicines called steroids that reduce swelling and irritation. Betamethasone is used to help reduce the redness and itchiness of certain skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis. Be aware Betamethasone Valerate Ointment does not cure the skin condition but it will relieve symptoms as stated above. 

Generic Betamethasone Valerate Ointment 0.1% is recommended to be used in addition to your usual moisturiser. This will help treat and manage your skin condition effectively.

DO NOT USE Betamethasone Valerate Ointment IF:

•  If you are allergic to any of its ingredients or for any skin condition other than the one(s) it has been prescribed for.
• You are pregnant or breast-feeding, think you may be pregnant, or are planning to have a baby,
• You notice signs of an allergic reaction.

Interactions with other drugs:

If you use other drugs or over the counter products at the same time, the effects of Betamethasone Valerate Ointment (e.g. Audavate) may change. This may increase your risk for side effects or cause your drug not to work properly. Tell your doctor about all the drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements you are using, so that your doctor can help you prevent or manage drug interactions. Betamethasone Valerate Ointment may interact with the following drugs and products:

• Clopidogrel
• Diphenhydramine
• Furosemide
• Rosuvastatin

FAQs

What is betamethasone valerate 0.1% ointment used for?

Betamethasone valerate ointment is a topical treatment used to manage various inflammatory skin conditions, including eczema, psoriasis, and different types of dermatitis. It is designed to treat flare-ups by calming the skin when it becomes particularly irritated or thickened.

How does betamethasone ointment work on eczema and skin inflammation?

It works by suppressing the body's inflammatory response in the specific area where it is applied. This effectively reduces redness, swelling, and the intense itching associated with skin conditions, allowing the skin time to heal.

Is betamethasone valerate a strong steroid?

Yes, betamethasone valerate 0.1% is classified as a potent topical corticosteroid. This means it is much stronger than over-the-counter hydrocortisone creams and is highly effective at treating stubborn or severe patches of inflammation that haven't responded to milder treatments.

How long can you use betamethasone ointment for?

This medication is intended for short-term use to get a flare-up under control. You should always follow the specific guidance provided by your prescriber, but it is typically used for a few days to a week or two. Long-term use without medical supervision is not recommended.

What is the difference between betamethasone cream and ointment?

The main difference is the consistency and the type of skin they are best for. The ointment is thicker and more greasy, making it ideal for very dry, scaly, or thickened skin as it helps lock in moisture. The cream is lighter, non-greasy, and usually better for moist or "weeping" skin.

Is betamethasone the same as Audavate?

Yes. Betamethasone valerate is the active medicinal ingredient, while Audavate is a specific brand name for the same medication. Both contain the same strength of steroid (0.1%) and work in exactly the same way to treat skin inflammation.

Who should not use betamethasone valerate ointment?

It should not be used on skin that is currently infected (such as cold sores, acne, or fungal infections) or on sensitive areas like the face, groin, or armpits unless specifically directed by a doctor. It is also important to avoid using it if you have a known allergy to any of the ingredients in the ointment.

Wash your hands before and unless it is being used on the hands, after each use.

Apply a thin layer to the affected area(s) and gently rub into the skin until it has all disappeared. 

It is important to use Betamethasone Valerate Ointment (e.g. Audavate) exactly as your doctor or pharmacist has told you to.

Do not use it just before having a bath, shower or going swimming. If you do, you may reduce the effectiveness.

Do not apply to your face unless specifically advised by your doctor.

If your doctor has told you to use it on your face, do not let the ointment get into your eyes. If you accidentally get some in your eyes, wash them thoroughly with running water for at least ten minutes.

This medicine is unlikely to have side effects if you use it as directed by your doctor. Side effects are more likely to happen if you use it on large skin areas or use it for long periods. Applying too much, or applying it to sensitive areas of the skin like the face, also increases the chances of side effects.

The most common side effects:

• Feeling of pain
• Itching
• Irritation burning in the affected area

Stop using Betamethasone Valerate Ointment and contact your GP or our Pharmacist here at SimplyMedsOnline if you notice your skin changes or worsens when using it.

Reporting of side effects

If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. This includes any possible side effects not listed in the above description and patient information leaflet. You can also report side effects directly via the Yellow Card Scheme at: www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or search for “MHRA yellowcard” in the Google Play or Apple App Store. By reporting side effects you can help provide more information on the safety of this medicine.