Betamethasone (Na) + Gentamicin (Na)

Betamethasone (Na) + Gentamicin (Na) — Uses and Benefits

This combination medicine is commonly used to treat skin, eye, or ear conditions where there is both inflammation and a bacterial infection.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Infected eczema, dermatitis or psoriasis patches
• Bacterial skin infections with associated itching, redness and swelling
• Infected insect bites or minor skin infections with inflammation
• Certain ear infections (otitis externa) with inflammation
• Certain bacterial eye infections with inflammation, when prescribed as drops

HOW IT WORKS

• Betamethasone is a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation, redness, itching and swelling
• Gentamicin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic that kills the bacteria causing the infection
• Together they treat both the infection and its inflammatory symptoms

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• Not used for viral infections like chickenpox, herpes, or cold sores
• Not used for fungal skin infections like ringworm
• Not used for acne
• Not for long-term daily use on large areas of skin
• Not a treatment for tuberculosis of the skin

How to Use Betamethasone (Na) + Gentamicin (Na)

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Use exactly as prescribed by your doctor, in the form given (cream, ointment, ear drops or eye drops)
• Wash and dry the affected area gently before applying
• Apply a thin layer and rub in gently; do not use more than advised
• Wash your hands before and after application, unless the hands are being treated
• Do not cover the area with an airtight bandage unless your doctor tells you to
• Do not use on the face, groin or underarms for long periods unless specifically advised
• Do not stop suddenly without asking your doctor, especially if used for a long time

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Apply it as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one and continue as usual
• Do not apply extra to make up for a missed dose

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep the cap tightly closed after use
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack

Betamethasone (Na) + Gentamicin (Na) — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Mild burning or stinging at the site of application
• Itching or dryness of the skin
• Redness at the application site

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Thinning of the skin with prolonged use
• Stretch marks if used on the same area for a long time
• Increased hair growth at the site
• Changes in skin colour

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Signs of allergic reaction such as rash, swelling of face/lips/tongue, or difficulty breathing
• Severe skin irritation, blistering or oozing
• Signs of hearing loss or ringing in the ears (with ear drop use)
• Blurred vision or eye pain (with eye drop use)
• Signs of a new infection or worsening of the existing infection

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Betamethasone (Na) + Gentamicin (Na) — Safety Information and Precautions

This medicine is available only with a doctor's prescription in India.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to betamethasone, gentamicin, or any other steroid or aminoglycoside antibiotic
• Have a viral skin infection like chickenpox, herpes or shingles
• Have a fungal or tuberculous skin infection without other treatment
• Have untreated skin infections not caused by susceptible bacteria

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Are using it on a child, especially on the face or large areas
• Have thin or damaged skin
• Have kidney problems
• Have a history of hearing problems (if using ear drops)
• Are using it near the eyes or on broken skin

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other steroid creams or oral steroids used at the same time
• Other antibiotics, especially other aminoglycosides
• Medicines affecting kidney function, if gentamicin is absorbed in larger amounts
• Any other topical medicine applied to the same area

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I use this on my face?

Only if your doctor specifically prescribes it for facial use, as facial skin is more prone to side effects.

How long can I use this medicine?

Use it only for the duration prescribed by your doctor, usually a short course, to avoid skin thinning and other side effects.

Can I use this for a fungal infection like ringworm?

• No, this combination is not effective against fungal infections and may worsen them.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.