Betamethasone
DiprolenePubChem CID 21800 · 3D model
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A super-strong topical steroid, applied as an inactive form that skin enzymes convert into the active drug right where it's put on, which then tells inflamed skin cells to calm down.
How it works
What's shown here is actually a slightly modified, inactive version of betamethasone — the dipropionate form used in the ointment. Enzymes in the skin snip that modification off once it's applied, releasing the real drug right where it's needed. From there it works like other steroids: it enters cells, attaches to a receptor, and travels to the nucleus, where it turns down the body's production of inflammation-causing chemicals. This particular formulation is designed to be unusually strong — testing places it among the most potent topical steroids available — though the FDA label is candid that exactly why it helps inflamed, itchy skin conditions isn't fully worked out.
What it’s used for
This ointment treats the swelling, redness, and itching of skin conditions that respond to steroids, in patients 13 and older. Because it's one of the strongest topical steroids available, its label warns more pointedly than milder steroids do: using it over large areas of skin, under a bandage or wrap, for a long stretch of time, or in children can let enough absorb into the body to affect the adrenal glands' own hormone output. It can also raise the risk of eye problems like cataracts or glaucoma, so any vision changes during treatment are worth having checked.
- Mechanism
- Glucocorticoid receptor agonist (corticosteroid)
- Drug class
- Small molecule
- Therapeutic area
- Dermatology