Betagen Cream 15 gm

Description

Betagen Cream 15 gm is a topical medication commonly used to treat various skin infections and inflammatory skin conditions.

Ingredients: Betagen Cream typically contains a combination of:

• Betamethasone: This is a potent corticosteroid. It works by reducing inflammation, redness, itching, and swelling associated with various skin conditions. It does this by blocking the production of certain chemical messengers (prostaglandins) that cause these symptoms.
• Gentamicin: This is an aminoglycoside antibiotic. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria that can cause skin infections, or complicate existing inflammatory conditions. It does this by preventing bacteria from synthesizing essential proteins needed for their survival.

Some formulations of Betagen Cream may also include Tolnaftate, which is an antifungal, making it a triple-action cream (steroid + antibiotic + antifungal).

Manufacturer: In Nepal, Betagen Cream 15 gm is manufactured by Apex Pharmaceuticals Pvt. Ltd.

Uses: Betagen Cream is used for skin conditions that are:

• Inflammatory: Such as eczema, dermatitis, and psoriasis (where bacterial infection is also present or suspected).
• Infected with bacteria: It helps to treat bacterial skin infections like impetigo (red sores), boils, or infections in hair follicles.
• It can be used to alleviate symptoms like itching, swelling, and redness caused by these conditions.
• It may also be used to prevent infections in minor cuts, wounds, burns, or ulcers on the skin.

How to Use:

• This cream is for external use only.
• Clean and dry the affected area thoroughly before application.
• Apply a thin layer of the cream to the affected area, usually 2-3 times a day, or as directed by your doctor.
• Wash your hands after applying the cream, unless your hands are the area being treated.
• Do not cover the treated area with airtight dressings (like bandages) unless specifically instructed by your doctor, as this can increase the absorption of the steroid and lead to more side effects.
• Do not apply to broken skin, and avoid contact with eyes, nose, or mouth.

Important Considerations and Side Effects:

• Common side effects at the application site include: burning, stinging, itching, irritation, dryness, and redness. These are usually temporary.
• Prolonged or excessive use, especially on large areas, under occlusive dressings, or on sensitive skin (like the face), can lead to more serious side effects due to systemic absorption of the steroid:
  • Skin thinning (atrophy)
  • Stretch marks (striae)
  • Changes in skin color
  • Increased hair growth (hypertrichosis)
  • Acne-like eruptions
  • Secondary infections (fungal or viral)
  • Perioral dermatitis (rash around the mouth)
  • Rarely, systemic effects like adrenal suppression or Cushing’s syndrome, especially in children or with long-term extensive use.
• Allergic reactions are possible, though rare.
• Contraindications: Do not use if you have viral infections (e.g., cold sores, chickenpox), fungal infections (e.g., ringworm, thrush) unless it’s a specific formulation with an antifungal, tuberculosis, syphilis, or severe acne.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult your doctor. Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding is generally advised with caution and only if clearly necessary, due to potential systemic absorption.
• Children: Use with caution and for limited periods in children, as they are more susceptible to systemic side effects due to a larger skin surface area to body weight ratio.

Always use Betagen Cream strictly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use it for longer than recommended. If your condition does not improve or worsens after a few days of treatment, consult your doctor.