Betamethasone 0.1% + Neomycin Sulphate 0.5% Topical

Indications

Betamethasone 0.1% + Neomycin Sulphate 0.5% Topical is used for: Lichen planus, Psoriasis, Eczema, Contact dermatitis, Seborrhoeic dermatitis, Systemic lupus erythematosus, Lichen simplex, Prurigo nodularis

Adult Dose

Adult: Topical Apply 2-3 times/day. Usual duration: Up to 7 days/course.

Child Dose

Child: >2 yr: As cream/ointment: Apply onto the affected area(s) 2-3 times daily. Usual treatment duration: Up to 5 days/course.

Renal Dose

Renal impairment: Dose reduction may be necessary.

Administration

Contra Indications

Hypersensitivity. Rosacea, acne vulgaris, perioral dermatitis, perianal and genital pruritus and primary cutaneous viral infections. Not to be used in otitis externa complicated by ear-drum perforation. Treatment of primary infected skin lesions caused by fungi or bacteria; primary or secondary infections due to yeast; or secondary infections due to Pseudomonas or Proteus species.

Precautions

Avoid prolonged treatment as it may lead to systemic corticosteroid effects even withour occlusion. Avoid prolonged excessive application to the facial areas. Withdraw treatment if there is spread of the infection. Risk of glaucoma development if preparation enters eye(s). Regular monitoring is recommended when used in psoriasis due to treatment tolerance, rebound relapses, generalised pustular psoriasis or systemic toxicity. Increased risk of contact sensitisation when used for extended period or recurrently. Pregnancy and lactation.

Pregnancy-Lactation

Interactions

If there is significant systemic absorption, neomycin sulfate may increase the respiratory depressant effects of neuromuscular blockers.

Adverse Effects

Side effects of Betamethasone 0.1% + Neomycin Sulphate 0.5% Topical : Prolonged use may cause local atrophic changes in the skin e.g. thining, striae and dilatation of superficial blood vessels. Local skin burning sensation, pruritus, pigmentation changes, allergic contact dermatitis and hypertrichosis. Ophthalmic preparation: Corneal ulceration, increased intraocular pressure, mydriasis, ptosis, epithelial punctate keratitis.

Mechanism of Action

Betamethasone valerate is a corticosteroid which is effective in inflammatory dermatoses. It is also effective in less responsive conditions such as psoriasis. Neomycin sulfate is a broad spectrum antibiotic. It is bactericidal against many bacteria which are commonly associated with skin infections.