Betnovate RD

What is Betnovate RD?

Betnovate RD is available as a cream or ointment and is a milder version of Betnovate. The ‘RD’ in its name refers to ‘ready diluted’ which means it contains less of the active ingredient, betamethasone valerate, compared to Betnovate. The ready diluted version is used to treat milder forms of skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis, or it may be used as a way of managing these skin problems after treatment with the stronger Betnovate. Betnovate is still a topical steroid as it contains a medicine that belongs to this class of drugs, and so any steroid should be used with care. Betnovate RD helps to reduce swelling, redness, and irritation associated with skin conditions.

How does Betnovate RD work?

The steroid ingredient in this medicine known as betamethasone valerate helps to control the body’s inflammatory response when it is exposed to an allergen or irritant. The chemicals that the body releases when triggered is responsible for the swelling, irritation, and redness associated with skin problems such as eczema. This medicine stops the skin cells from releasing these chemicals to reduce the symptoms and eventually clear the skin problem.

Who is this medicine suitable for?

Betnovate RD is suitable for adults and children above the age of 1 year old who have been diagnosed with a mild form of eczema, psoriasis, or dermatitis, more severe cases may be treated with stronger medicines. It may also be suitable for those who need to keep their condition under control after being treated with stronger medicines such as Betnovate, in this case, the ‘ready diluted’ Betnovate can help to prevent further flareups and manage the skin problem.

Who should not use Betnovate RD?

There are a number of circumstances in which Betnovate RD is not suitable. If any of the following apply to you you must not use this medicine, this includes if you:

• Are allergic to betamethasone valerate or any other ingredient in this medicine
• Have acne
• Have rosacea
• Have a skin condition called perioral dermatitis - a spotty red rash around your mouth
• Have itching around the anus or genitals
• Have infected skin, unless it is being treated at the same time
• Have itchy skin without any inflammation

Betnovate RD could make these conditions worse so it’s important to avoid using this medicine if any of these apply to you. It’s especially important if you have an allergy to this medicine as allergic reactions can be severe and life-threatening.

Do not use this medicine on any children under the age of 1 year.

Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before starting Betnovate RD if any of the following apply to you:

• You have previously had an allergic reaction to another type of steroid
• You are applying the medicine under airtight dressings or a nappy, you need to be careful you’re not using too much and these type of dressings mean the active ingredient can be absorbed through the skin more easily
• You have psoriasis
• You are using it for a chronic leg ulcer
• You are applying it to a large surface area
• You are applying it to broken skin
• You are applying it near the eyes
• You have an infection of the skin
• You are applying it to areas where the skin is thinner such as the face

Can I use Betnovate RD if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?

Your doctor will need to determine whether it’s safe for you to use this medicine if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before using this medicine if this is the case. If your doctor believes it’s necessary for you to use Betnovate RD you must not use it for a long period of time or on large areas of the skin. Use it minimally, and if you are breastfeeding and need to apply it to your breasts, do this after you’ve breastfed your child and don’t do it soon before breastfeeding to avoid your child coming into contact with the substance.

Can I use Betnovate RD while taking other medicines?

Always tell your doctor or pharmacist about any other prescription, non-prescription, or herbal medicines you may be taking before starting Betnovate RD, this is to ensure there isn’t a risk of interaction between the drugs which may cause side effects. In particular, tell your doctor if you’re taking ritonavir or itraconazole.

What are the side effects?

Side effects may occur while using Betnovate RD, as with all medicines, but not everyone will experience them. It’s common to experience burning, pain, irritation, or itching the site of application, but again, although it’s a common side effect, not everyone who uses Betnovate RD will have these feelings.

Very rare side effects may include an allergic reaction, worsening of your skin condition, you may also develop a rash, or if you have psoriasis you may develop raised bumps with pus. If any of these occur you must stop using the medicine immediately and seek medical help straight away.

Other very rare side effects including thinning or dryness of the skin, stretch marks may develop, an increase or reduction in hair growth, changes to skin colour, weight gain, or blurred vision. Refer to the patient information leaflet to see a full list of side effects and if you do experience side effects see your doctor as soon as possible.

Betnovate RD ointment vs Betnovate RD cream

Both the ointment and cream forms work in the same way, the difference is the type of skin that they’re applied to. The thick, greasy consistency of the ointment is suitable for extra dry and scaly skin, whereas the cream is used on areas of skin that are moist and weeping. How it works and how you use it is the same.

How to use Betnovate RD

It’s usually recommended that this medicine is applied to the affected area once or twice a day, and this may be reduced once your skin begins to improve. However, if your condition doesn’t improve after 2-4 weeks you should speak to your doctor. Before applying the cream or ointment wash your hands thoroughly, you should also do this after applying it to avoid transferring it to other parts of your body, unless it is intended to be applied to your hands. You should apply just a thin layer on a small area of the skin (unless told otherwise by your doctor) and rub it in gently until it has disappeared.

How to buy Betnovate RD online

You can buy this medicine safely online at Doctor 4 U, to do so you will need to complete a short online medical consultation which will be reviewed by one of our GMC (General Medical Council) registered doctors, and if you are deemed suitable for this treatment your prescription will be dispensed in our UK-based pharmacy and sent to you via a secure courier service. Our process is used to ensure that this medicine is safe and suitable for you.

How is my order shipped to me?

When an order is ready for shipping, it is collected and delivered by either the Royal Mail or DPD depending on your preference (or possibly your location or the item you ordered). Each order is assigned a tracking number, which will be emailed to you at the time of dispatch. Your medicine will be sent in plain and discreet packaging that’s eco-friendly. We do not include any branding on our packaging nor any labels which inform readers what type of product is contained within.

Advice on Addiction and Medication Restrictions

If you are at all worried or concerned about an addiction to any type of medication, we urge you to speak to a professional for help and advice. Below are links to organisations that can help.