Betnovate Scalp Application 100ml

What is Betnovate Scalp and what is it used for?

Betnovate scalp application is a prescription-only cutaneous medicine for the treatment of skin conditions that affect the scalp such as eczema and psoriasis. This product is made by GlaxoSmithKline UK.

Betnovate Scalp contains the active ingredient betamethasone valerate 0.1%, a corticosteroid that helps reduce inflamed, irritated skin. The cutaneous solution is used twice daily on dry, flaky, irritated or inflamed areas to calm redness, itching and irritation. Betnovate Scalp Application can be used alongside scalp moisturisers and emollients to help keep eczema of the scalp under control and to soothe alopecia.

If you’re suffering from an itchy, irritated scalp that is undiagnosed, there could be several causes, including dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, allergic reactions, tinea capitis, eczema, folliculitis or head lice. To confirm the cause, consult with our UK-based medical team to find the right medication.

How does Betnovate Scalp work?

Betamethasone is the active ingredient in Betnovate Scalp, it is a corticosteroid that is applied topically to the affected areas that show symptoms of redness, irritation or inflammation. Betamethasone is classed as a 'potent' (strong) steroid, so obtaining the right dosage is important. It can be useful in clearing and providing relief from chronic conditions where weaker treatments have been ineffective. Betamethasone is absorbed through the skin and then helps to block the release of inflammatory chemicals that cause the symptoms of severe eczema.

While it has its benefits, Betnovate scalp application is not intended for everyday usage. It should be used to manage acute attacks of folliculitis or eczema on the scalp or head where the skin becomes very dry, itchy or flaky (which sometimes results in dandruff). You should then use moisturisers or emollients to keep the skin in good condition day-to-day – such as with chronic conditions. Be sure to follow the usage and application instructions on the enclosed leaflet carefully.

Alternatives to Betnovate Scalp

Prescription-strength corticosteroid treatments are more likely than milder treatments to cause unwanted side effects. It is therefore recommended that you try over the counter treatments first to check whether they are effective for you. There are a few non-prescription alternatives to Betnovate Scalp that can be used to treat a dry scalp, these treatments include:

• Nizoral shampoo
• Alphosyl 2 in 1 Shampoo
• Neutrogena T-Gel
• Selsun shampoo

For a full list of dry scalp and psoriasis treatments why not take a look at our conditions advice page.

The following two treatments are prescription-only alternatives to Betnovate Scalp:

Dovobet gel is a topical corticosteroid treatment combined with a form of vitamin D to treat body and scalp psoriasis whereas Betnovate scalp application works to treat an itchy scalp that could be the result of either psoriasis, eczema, seborrheic dermatitis, head lice, or any number of afflictions – not just psoriasis alone.

Elocon lotion is a topical corticosteroid used to relieve inflammation, itching, and irritation of the skin and comes under multiple brand names. It can, however, sometimes cause inflammation of hair follicles.

Diprosalic scalp application is a combination treatment containing betamethasone (corticosteroid) and salicylic acid. It is particularly useful in psoriasis where the skin is covered in scalps as well as being inflamed or irritated.

Betnovate Scalp - effects on the hair

Here are some things to bear in mind when using Betnovate scalp application on hair:

• Don’t use a hairdryer directly after application. Keep the scalp away from sources of heat, such as electric fires and cigarettes
• The treatment needs to soak into the scalp, so don’t wash it off. Wash and dry hair before application
• A possible side effect of using Betnovate scalp application is excessive hair growth, however, it is not intended as a hair growth treatment. See our hair loss section for appropriate hair loss treatments
• While you can still dye your hair, consider that the use of harsh chemicals, such as those found in hair dye, may further aggravate your condition. Hair dye should not be combined with Betnovate scalp application – it should be applied to dry hair only

Sources

• Betnovate Scalp Application Patient Information Leaflet: https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/934/pil
• https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/...

How to use Betnovate Scalp

For adults over the age of 18 years: Apply to the affected areas of the scalp twice daily, in the morning and at night. You should use this medicine exactly as it is prescribed. You will be advised how long to use this solution.

Whilst using Betnovate Scalp Application, you should wash and shampoo your hair before application to ensure it has time to absorb into the skin and is not washed off. As Betnovate Scalp is flammable, do not use a hairdryer whilst using the treatment.

Use moisturiser and other emollients to keep your scalp in good condition.

Instructions for applying Betnovate Scalp Application:

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 and even layer of liquid.
4. You can rub Betnovate Scalp Application in, but you don't have to.
5. Your scalp will feel cool until the liquid has dried.
6. Wash your hands again.

Betnovate Scalp Ingredients

Betnovate Scalp Application contains the active ingredient: betamethasone valerate 0.122%.

It also contains the inactive ingredients: Carbomer, Isopropyl Alcohol, Sodium Hydroxide and Purified Water.

Betnovate Scalp Side Effects

Betnovate Scalp Application does not always cause side effects, however like all medicines they are possible. Side effects are normally associated with Betnovate Scalp being applied incorrectly or being used in higher doses or quantities than recommended.

The most common side effects associated with Betnovate Scalp Application can include:

• a feeling of burning, irritation or itching where the liquid is applied.
• stretch marks may develop
• veins under the surface of your skin may become more noticeable
• increased hair growth and changes in skin colour
• thinning of your skin and it may also damage more easily
• weight gain, rounding of the face
• high blood pressure

Stop using Betnovate Scalp and seek medical attention if:

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

If any of the above side effects become serious, or if you notice any side effects not listed here or in the accompanying Patient Information Leaflet, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Betnovate Scalp Warnings

You should not use Betnovate Scalp Application:

• If you are allergic (hypersensitive) to betamethasone valerate or any of the other ingredients of Betnovate (listed under the ingredients tab).
• If you have a skin infection on your scalp (this may appear as an open wound that may be sticky or have pus).
• On children.
• If you have previously had an allergic reaction with another steroid.
• If you are applying the liquid under an airtight dressing. These dressings make it easier for the active ingredient to pass through the skin. It is possible to accidentally end up using too much.
• If you have psoriasis, your doctor will want to see you more often.

If you are not sure if any of the above apply to you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist, or contact us, before using this medicine.

Betnovate Scalp in Pregnancy and breastfeeding

You should not purchase this medicine online if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. It is best to talk to your doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant, might become pregnant or are breastfeeding.

Before using this treatment please ensure you have read the Patient Information Leaflet thoroughly.