Betamethasone/ClotrimazoleBetamethasone dipropionate / Clotrimazole

About Betamethasone/Clotrimazole

Clotrimazole, an azole antifungal, attacks the fungus, while betamethasone dipropionate, a corticosteroid, calms redness and itching. The combination is approved for inflamed, symptomatic tinea pedis (athlete’s foot), tinea cruris (jock itch) and tinea corporis (ringworm of the body) caused by dermatophyte fungi. It is applied twice a day for one week on the groin or body or two weeks on the feet; if the rash has not improved by then, the label says to review the diagnosis.

The steroid sets the limits. In a skin-blanching test its potency was comparable to high-potency topical steroids, and enough can be absorbed to suppress the body’s own steroid production or cause Cushing’s syndrome and high blood sugar, especially over large areas, for long periods or under a dressing. Many 12 to 16 year olds in the label’s studies showed adrenal suppression, so it is not recommended under 17, and it should not be used for diaper rash. Use is capped at 45 grams of cream or 45 mL of lotion a week, and at two weeks on the groin or body or four on the feet.

Tingling or burning, rash and swelling were reported in trials. Longer use of topical steroids can thin the skin and cause stretch marks, and can raise the risk of cataracts and glaucoma. Observational studies link potent topical steroids in pregnancy with lower birthweight.

Taking Betamethasone/Clotrimazole

How to take it

Rub a thin layer gently into the affected skin twice a day and wash your hands afterward. Shake the lotion well before each use. Do not bandage or wrap the area, wear loose clothing if you are treating the groin, and keep it off the face, underarms and diaper area.

If you miss a dose

Apply it when you remember, unless the next application is nearly due; then skip the missed one. Do not apply extra to make up.

Storage

At room temperature and out of reach of children; do not leave it in a car in hot or cold weather. Keep the lotion upright.

Interactions to know about

No drug interactions are listed, but tell the prescriber about other steroid creams or tablets, since some of the steroid is absorbed through the skin and can raise blood sugar. Keep it away from the eyes and report blurred vision.

This summarizes the official prescribing information. Your prescriber’s and pharmacist’s instructions, and the leaflet that comes with your medicine, take priority.

Why the cash price for Betamethasone/Clotrimazole differs from pharmacy to pharmacy

The cream is a routine generic from several makers, so most of the gap between quotes is the pharmacy’s mark-up and dispensing fee, and pharmacies price the 15 g and 45 g tubes independently. The lotion has a single maker, so there is little competition on its price, and it may need to be ordered. Kits that bundle the cream with a zinc oxide product are separate products, priced on their own.

Ways to pay less for Betamethasone/Clotrimazole without insurance

• Ask the prescriber which tube size the course needs; a small rash may not need the 45 g tube.
• If a kit was prescribed, ask whether the plain generic cream would do.
• For mild athlete’s foot or ringworm, ask the prescriber whether plain clotrimazole, sold over the counter, would be enough.
• Upload the prescription to Script Unlock so licensed pharmacies can quote their cash price. You pay the pharmacy directly.

Questions to ask your pharmacist about Betamethasone/Clotrimazole

1. 1.How long should I use it, and what if the rash has not improved by then?
2. 2.Which areas should I avoid, and is it all right in the groin?
3. 3.Is it suitable for a teenager?
4. 4.Can I use it alongside other steroid creams, inhalers or tablets?

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