What is Betaderm (Betamethasone) scalp lotion used for?

From the Guidelines

Betaderm scalp lotion is recommended for the treatment of scalp psoriasis for up to 4 weeks, as it contains betamethasone valerate, a class IV topical corticosteroid with an efficacy rate of 72% in improving physician's global assessment (PGA) compared to 47% of placebo-treated patients 1. The typical recommended usage is to apply a small amount to the affected areas of the scalp once or twice daily, gently massaging it in until absorbed.

Key Considerations

• Treatment duration is usually limited to 2-4 weeks to minimize potential side effects, as recommended by the joint AAD-NPF guidelines of care for the management and treatment of psoriasis with topical therapy 1.
• When using Betaderm, it's essential to avoid getting the medication in your eyes, and you should wash your hands thoroughly after application.
• The lotion works by reducing inflammation, itching, and scaling by suppressing the immune response in the skin.
• Potential side effects may include burning, stinging, or skin thinning with prolonged use.
• If symptoms worsen or don't improve after two weeks, you should consult your healthcare provider.
• This medication should only be used as prescribed and shouldn't be covered with bandages or other occlusive dressings unless specifically directed by your doctor.

Efficacy and Safety

• The efficacy of betamethasone valerate foam (class IV) in treating scalp psoriasis has been demonstrated in a 4-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, showing a 72% improvement in PGA compared to 47% of placebo-treated patients 1.
• The safety of Betaderm scalp lotion has been established, but prolonged use can lead to cutaneous side effects and systemic absorption, emphasizing the importance of limited treatment duration and careful supervision by a physician 1.

From the FDA Drug Label

DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION: ... Apply a few drops of Betamethasone Valerate Lotion to the affected area and massage lightly until it disappears. Apply twice daily, in the morning and at night. The dosage for Betaderm scalp lotion is to apply a few drops to the affected area, twice daily [ 2 ].

From the Research

Betaderm Scalp Lotion

• Betaderm is a topical corticosteroid used to treat various scalp conditions, including psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis 3, 4, 5.
• The active ingredient in Betaderm is betamethasone, which is a potent corticosteroid that reduces inflammation and itching 4, 5, 6.
• Topical corticosteroids like Betaderm are often used as a first-line treatment for scalp psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis due to their effectiveness in reducing symptoms such as erythema, scaling, and pruritus 3, 4, 5.

Efficacy of Betaderm

• Studies have shown that betamethasone valerate, the active ingredient in Betaderm, is effective in treating seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp, with significant improvements in symptoms such as erythema, scaling, and itching 4.
• Betamethasone has also been shown to be effective in treating scalp psoriasis, with combination treatment of topical betamethasone and calcipotriene being the most effective topical therapy 5.
• However, long-term use of topical corticosteroids like Betaderm can lead to side effects such as skin atrophy and telangiectasia, highlighting the need for careful consideration of treatment duration and frequency 6.

Comparison with Other Treatments

• Betaderm has been compared to other treatments for seborrheic dermatitis, including pimecrolimus cream, with both treatments showing efficacy in reducing symptoms 6.
• However, pimecrolimus cream may be an excellent alternative therapeutic modality for treating seborrheic dermatitis, with fewer relapses and less pruritus observed after discontinuation of treatment 6.
• The choice of treatment for scalp conditions like psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis ultimately depends on the individual patient's needs and response to treatment, with topical corticosteroids like Betaderm remaining a common and effective treatment option 3, 4, 5.