Save on this medicine
Other brands with the same active ingredient
These brands contain the same active ingredient (Betamethasone). Strength and form may differ — confirm substitution with your doctor or pharmacist before switching.
Indications & Uses
Betnal is indicated for:
Dosage Reference
Reference Information Only
Dosages shown are general references from official sources. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist for personalized dosing.
Adults:
The lowest dosage that produces an acceptable result should be used. Adult Dosage: The usual range is 0.5 to 5 mg daily. The dose depends on the disease, its severity, and the clinical response obtained. The following regimens are for guidance only, and divided dosing is usually employed. Short term treatment: 2 to 3 mg daily for the first few days, then the daily dosage is reduced by 0.25 or 0.50 mg every two to five days, depending on the response. Rheumatoid arthritis: 0.5 to 2 mg daily. For maintenance therapy, the lowest effective dosage is used. Child Dosage: A proportion of the adult dosage may be used (for example, 75% at twelve years, 50% at seven years, and 25% at one year), but clinical factors must be given due consideration. Or as directed by the physician. Use in the elderly: The common adverse effects of systemic corticosteroids may carry more serious consequences in old age, so close clinical supervision is required to avoid life threatening reactions.
Side Effects
Side effects can include diabetes and osteoporosis (a particular concern in older adults), as well as muscle wasting affecting the muscles closest to the trunk (proximal myopathy), loss of menstrual periods, and weight gain. Taking high doses of corticosteroids can lead to Cushing's syndrome, marked by a rounded "moon" face, stretch marks, and acne; this generally resolves once treatment is stopped. In children, corticosteroids may slow growth.
Cautions & Contraindications
Warnings & Precautions
Particular caution is needed when using systemic corticosteroids in patients who have had a recent heart attack, or who have an underactive thyroid, osteoporosis, high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, diabetes, a history of active tuberculosis, glaucoma (or a family history of it), previous corticosteroid-induced muscle weakness, liver failure, impaired kidney function, epilepsy, or peptic ulcers.
Contraindications
Systemic infections not being actively treated with anti-infectives. Do not use if you are hypersensitive to any ingredient in these tablets.