Vistamethasone Eye/Ear/Nose Drops (Betamethasone sodium phosphate)

Vistamethasone 0.1% Eye, Ear and Nose Drops (Betamethasone)

What are Vistamethasone 0.1% Drops?

Vistamethasone 0.1% eye, ear and nose drops contain the active ingredient betamethasone, which belongs to a group of medicines known as corticosteroids. They are used for reducing inflammation. Betamethasone is a synthetic corticosteroid that can be adminstered into the eyes, ears or nose to decrease inflammation in these areas.

Corticosteroids are hormones produced naturally by the adrenal glands that have many important functions, including control of inflammatory responses.
 

How does the active ingredient Betamethasone work?

As Betamethasone is an Corticosteroid it works by reducing the overall redness, soreness and itching that are symptoms of inflammation.

Inflammation is caused by the release of substances that are important in the immune system (usually associated with an allergy or Irritation). These substances cause blood vessels to widen which results in the affected area becoming red, swollen, itchy and painful. Corticosteroids work by acting within cells to decrease the release of these substances in a particular area, thereby reducing swelling, redness and itch.

Emergency supplys of Vistamethasone:
 

Vistamethasone is a prescription only medicine and an Emergency Supply can only be issued if you are currently being prescribed this medication by your GP.  You will need to fill out a questionnaire, which is then reviewed to make sure Vistamethasone is a suitable treatment for you. You will also need to upload proof that you have used this item before. If your order is approved, your Vistamethasone can be sent directly to you.

Warnings and Precautions

Always take this medication exactly as directed by your GP.

Keep out of sight and Reach of children.

If you are taking or using any new medications even over the counter medicines whilst using Vistamethasone you should make your GP aware to prevent interactions.

Ingredients:
 

Active ingredients: Betamethasone

How do I use Vistamethasone 0.1% Drops?

Vistamethasone must be used exactly as your doctor or pharmacist has told you. If you are unsure contact your GP.

Recommended starting dose is usually:

ONE or TWO drops in the affected eye or eyes every one to two hours, gladually reduced as irritation improves

What are the side effects of Vistamethasone 0.1% Eye Drops?
 

Possible side effects if used in the eye:

• Local irritation, itching, stinging or burning sensation.

• Temporary blurred vision after putting the drops in the eye(s).

• Ulceration of the front part of the eye (cornea).

• Increase in the pressure inside the eye (glaucoma) which may lead to problems with your sight.

• If used in the eye frequently or for long periods of time, corticosteroids such as this one can cause partial loss of vision due to cloudiness in the lens of the eye (cataracts).

• Dilated pupils.

• Drooping of the eyelid.

• Inflammation of the outer surface of the eye.

Possible side effects if used in the nose:

• Nasal irritation and dryness.

• Sneezing.

• Headache.

• Lightheadedness.

• Itchy rash.

• Nausea.

• Nosebleeds.

• Asthma.

• Perforation or ulceration of the nasal septum.

• Disturbance to sense of smell or taste.

• Slowing of growth has been reported in children. Children's height should be monitored if treatment with this medicine is prolonged.

Possible side effects when used in the ear:

• Local irritation, itching, stinging or burning sensation.

• Dermatitis.

Any concerns or queries regarding any side effects this medicine has caused or could cause you can call your GP or our pharmacist.

If you have any severe side effects seek medical assitance as soon as possible.

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.