Betamethasone

Moderate-to-severe eczema, psoriasis (body), contact dermatitis, and other steroid-responsive skin conditions not controlled by mild or moderate topical steroids.

Same anti-inflammatory mechanism as hydrocortisone but with much greater potency. Betamethasone has high glucocorticoid receptor affinity, providing powerful suppression of skin inflammation, cell proliferation and immune activity.

Adults and older children with moderate-to-severe inflammatory skin conditions. NOT for face or flexures (too potent - use hydrocortisone instead). Use for limited periods. Ointment is more potent than cream for the same concentration.

Order online and we review your request. A prescriber checks your consultation form for clinical appropriateness and contacts you if anything else is needed. Once approved, your medication is dispensed and delivered to your door.

Tracked: Tracked delivery, arrives in two working days - Free

When it arrives: Every order is sent tracked. Where this page says in post today, it goes out today. Where it says in post tomorrow, it goes out the next working day. On the rare occasions a medicine is unavailable, we will contact you to talk about timing and alternatives.

We dispense clinically equivalent generic medications where available. Prices shown are for the generic version. If you prefer the branded version, let us know in your order form and we will confirm any price difference.

Betamethasone from £20.99 per tube.

Topical corticosteroids: skin thinning with prolonged use, stretch marks, contact dermatitis, perioral dermatitis. Use lowest potency for shortest duration. Tacrolimus: burning/stinging on application (usually improves), skin infections. Adapalene/tretinoin: initial skin irritation, dryness, peeling, photosensitivity.

Topical steroids: do not use on infected skin (unless combined with antimicrobial), rosacea, perioral dermatitis, acne. Potent steroids: do not use on the face. Tacrolimus: do not use on infected or malignant skin.

Minimal systemic interactions for most topical preparations. Tretinoin/adapalene: avoid other irritant products (AHAs, BHAs, benzoyl peroxide) at the same time of day.

Mild topical steroids (hydrocortisone 1%): generally safe in pregnancy in small amounts. Potent steroids: avoid in pregnancy if possible. Retinoids (tretinoin, adapalene, isotretinoin): contraindicated in pregnancy. Tacrolimus: avoid in pregnancy.

Apply thinly once or twice daily for limited periods (typically 2-4 weeks, then step down). NOT for face, armpits, groin or under breasts (use mild steroid for these areas). Can cause skin thinning, stretch marks and telangiectasia (visible blood vessels) with prolonged use. Ointment is better for dry/lichenified skin; cream for weeping/moist areas.