From the Guidelines
Topical Betaderm (betamethasone) is effective for treating contact dermatitis after the infectious component has cleared, as supported by the British Association of Dermatologists' guidelines for the management of contact dermatitis 2017 1. The guidelines suggest that therapy for contact dermatitis persisting despite allergen/irritant removal and skin protection largely follows the management of atopic/endogenous dermatitis, and studies support the efficacy of topical steroids, such as betamethasone, in the treatment of contact dermatitis. Some key points to consider when using topical Betaderm for contact dermatitis include:
- Apply a thin layer of Betaderm to the affected areas 1-2 times daily for 1-2 weeks, avoiding the face, groin, and underarm areas unless specifically directed by a healthcare provider.
- Do not cover the treated area with bandages or other occlusive dressings unless instructed to do so.
- Betamethasone works by suppressing the immune response and reducing inflammation in the skin by inhibiting the release of inflammatory chemicals.
- It's essential to use the medication only as prescribed and for the shortest duration necessary, as prolonged use can lead to skin thinning, striae (stretch marks), or adrenal suppression.
- If symptoms worsen or don't improve after a week of treatment, consult your healthcare provider.
- Maintain good skin care by keeping the area clean, avoiding known irritants, and using fragrance-free moisturizers to support healing, as recommended by the British Association of Dermatologists' guidelines 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
INDICATIONS AND USAGE: Topical corticosteroids are indicated for the relief of the inflammatory and pruritic manifestations of corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses.
Topical Betaderm (betamethasone) is likely to be effective for treating contact dermatitis after the infectious component has cleared, as it is indicated for the relief of inflammatory and pruritic manifestations of corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses, which includes contact dermatitis. The key points are:
- Corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses: Contact dermatitis is a type of dermatosis that can respond to corticosteroid treatment.
- Inflammatory and pruritic manifestations: Topical betamethasone can help relieve the inflammation and itching associated with contact dermatitis. 2
From the Research
Effectiveness of Topical Betaderm for Contact Dermatitis
- Topical corticosteroids, such as betamethasone, are commonly used to treat contact dermatitis 3, 4, 5.
- The effectiveness of topical betamethasone for contact dermatitis may depend on the type of contact dermatitis, with some studies suggesting it is more effective for allergic contact dermatitis than irritant contact dermatitis 3, 5.
- A study found that topical corticosteroids, including betamethasone-17-valerate, were ineffective in treating surfactant-induced irritant dermatitis 4.
- However, another study found that a potent topical corticosteroid, betamethasone-17-valerate, improved healing of experimentally-induced irritant skin reactions 5.
- The optimal duration of steroid therapy for contact dermatitis is not well established, but review articles recommend 10 to 21 days of treatment with topical or oral corticosteroids for moderate to severe contact dermatitis due to plants 6.
Considerations for Treatment
- It is essential to note that some individuals may be allergic to topical corticosteroids, including betamethasone, and may experience systemic contact dermatitis from oral prednisolone 7.
- Patch tests and intradermal tests may be used to identify a safe corticosteroid for patients with known allergies to topical corticosteroids 7.
- Topical betamethasone may be effective for treating contact dermatitis after the infectious component has cleared, but the effectiveness may vary depending on the individual case and the type of contact dermatitis 3, 5.