Betnovate Scalp Solution

Betnovate scalp solution is a topical prescription-only treatment for treating scalp dermatoses, such as psoriasis, seborrheic capitis or inflammation associated with severe dandruff. Betnovate scalp application contains a medicine called betamethasone valerate which belongs to a group of medicines called corticosteroids. Corticosteroids help in reducing redness, swelling and inflammation. Corticosteroids come in various potencies, and selection depends on the severity, type and previous treatments used. Betamethasone is a potent and fast-acting corticosteroid intended for use on the scalp.  

Betnovate scalp application should be used alongside scalp emollients to help keep psoriasis under control. Descaling may be necessary before applying Betnovate. This will allow the corticosteroid to reach the site of dermatoses and provide effective treatment. Betnovate should not be used regularly for an extended period. It should only be used in 4 weekly intervals, and once symptoms improve, an emollient should be used to control eczema/ psoriasis symptoms. 

Betnovate scalp application should not be applied on the scalp if you believe there is an infection: pus, inflamed, red and sore. Conditions include folliculitis, pustular psoriasis, or fungal infections like tinea capitis. 

A small quantity of Betnovate Scalp Application should be applied to the scalp at night and morning until improvement is noticeable. It may then be possible to sustain improvement by applying once daily or less frequently. Be very careful not to get the liquid in your eyes. Do not touch your eyes until you have washed your hands. If you wash or shampoo your hair, it should be dried before applying the liquid. If you are applying Betnovate on someone else, make sure you wash your hands after use or wear disposable plastic gloves.  

This product is flammable. Keep the liquid away from open fires, flames, and all ignition sources, including smoking during application and immediately after use. Do not dry your hair with a hairdryer. 

1. Wash your hands.  
2. Unscrew the bottle cap and place the nozzle on the scalp that needs treating.  
3. Gently squeeze the bottle to cover the area with a thin, even layer of liquid.  
4. You can rub this liquid in, but you don’t have to.  
5. Your scalp will feel cool until the liquid has dried.  
6. Rewash your hands.  
7. It is essential to stay within the prescribed amount.  

If you use more Betnovate than you should: If you apply too much or if you accidentally swallow, it could make you ill. Talk to your doctor or go to the hospital as soon as possible.  

If you forget to use Betnovate: apply it as soon as you remember. If it is close to the time you are next meant to apply it you can wait until this time.  

If you stop using Betnovate: If you use Betnovate regularly make sure you talk to your doctor before you stop using it as your condition may get worse if stopped suddenly.

Betnovate is tolerated well by many patients. However, like all medicines, Betnovate Scalp Application can cause side effects. Betnovate Scalp Application may cause the following side effects: 

• a feeling of burning, pain, irritation or itching where the liquid is applied.  
• an increased risk of infection  
• an allergic skin reaction where the liquid is applied  
• rash, itchy bumpy skin or redness of the skin  
• thinning and dryness of your skin and it may also damage or wrinkle more easily  
• stretch marks may develop  
• veins under the surface of your skin may become more noticeable  
• an increase or reduction in hair growth or hair loss and changes in skin colour  
• weight gain, rounding of the face  
• delayed weight gain or slowing of growth in children  
• bones can become thin, weak and break easily  
• cloudy lens in the eye (cataract) or increased pressure in eye (glaucoma)  
• increased blood sugar levels or sugar in the urine  

If you are in any doubt about the treatment or experience any of the above side effects or any other side effect not mentioned, stop using this product and tell your doctor or contact The Family Chemist clinician. 

Stop using Betnovate and tell your doctor immediately if:  

• you find that your skin condition gets worse, you develop a generalised rash or your skin becomes swollen during treatment. You may be allergic to Betnovate, have an infection or need other treatment.  
• you have psoriasis and get raised bumps with pus under the skin. This can happen very rarely during or after treatment and is known as pustular psoriasis.  

Do not use Betnovate:  

• if you are allergic (hypersensitive) to betamethasone valerate or any of the other ingredients of Betnovate.  
• if you have a skin infection on your scalp  

Warnings and precautions  

Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before you use this medicine if:  

• you have previously had an allergic reaction to another steroid  
• you are applying the liquid under an airtight dressing. These dressings make it easier for the active ingredient to pass through the skin. Is it possible to accidentally end up using too much. 
• you are applying the liquid to broken skin or within the skin folds  
• you are applying to a large surface area  
• you are applying to thin skin or on children as their skin is thinner than adults and, as a result, may absorb larger amounts.  
• Dressing or bandages should not be used on children where the scalp application is applied.