Brand name:

Diprolene

Generic name: Betamethasone dipropionate

Why is Diprolene prescribed?

Diprolene, a synthetic cortisone-like steroid available in cream, gel, lotion, or ointment form, is used to treat certain itchy rashes and other inflammatory skin conditions. Its sister product Diprosone is available only as a cream.

Most important fact about Diprolene

When you use Diprolene, you inevitably absorb some of the medication through your skin and into the bloodstream. Too much absorption can lead to unwanted side effects elsewhere in the body. To keep this problem to a minimum, avoid using large amounts of Diprolene over large areas, and do not cover it with airtight dressings such as plastic wrap or adhesive bandages.

How should you take Diprolene?

Apply Diprolene in a thin film, exactly as prescribed by your doctor. A typical regimen is 1 or 2 applications per day. Do not use the medication for longer than prescribed.

Diprolene is for use only on the skin. Be careful to keep it out of your eyes.

Once you have applied Diprolene, never cover the skin with an airtight bandage or other tight dressing.

For a fungal or bacterial skin infection, you will need antifungal or antibacterial medication in addition to Diprolene. If improvement is not prompt, you should stop using Diprolene until the infection is visibly clearing.

• If you miss a dose...
  Apply it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule.

• Storage instructions...
  Store at room temperature.

What side effects may occur?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. A possible side effect of Diprolene is stinging or burning of the skin where the medication is applied.

• Other side effects on the skin may include:
  Acne-like eruptions, atrophy, "broken" capillaries (fine reddish lines), cracking or tightening, dryness, excess hair growth, infected hair follicles, inflammation, irritation, itching, prickly heat, rash, redness, sensitivity to touch

Diprolene can be absorbed and produce side effects elsewhere in the body; see the "Overdosage" section below.

Why should Diprolene not be prescribed?

Do not use Diprolene if you are sensitive to it or any other steroid medication.

Special warnings about Diprolene

Do not use Diprolene to treat any condition other than the one for which it was prescribed.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Diprolene

Do not use Diprolene with any other steroid-containing product. Such combinations increase the chance of absorption and side effects.

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

It is not known whether Diprolene, when applied to skin, causes any problem during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. It's considered best for pregnant women to avoid the product unless its possible benefits outweigh the potential risk. If it must be used, it should not be applied extensively, in large amounts, or for a long period of time.

Recommended dosage for Diprolene

ADULTS

Diprolene products are not to be used with airtight dressings.

Cream or ointment

Apply a thin film to the affected skin areas once or twice daily. Treatment should be limited to 45 grams per week.

Lotion

Apply a few drops of Diprolene Lotion to the affected area once or twice daily and massage lightly until the lotion disappears.

Treatment must be limited to 14 days; do not use any more than 50 milliliters per week.

Gel

Apply a thin layer of Diprolene Gel to the affected area once or twice daily and rub in gently and completely.

Treatment must be limited to 14 days; do not use any more than 50 grams per week.

CHILDREN

Use of Diprolene is not recommended for children 12 and under. For those 13 and over, use no more than necessary to obtain results.

Overdosage

With copious or prolonged use of Diprolene, hormone absorbed into the bloodstream may cause high blood sugar, sugar in the urine, and a group of symptoms called Cushing's syndrome.

• Symptoms of Cushing's syndrome may include:
  Acne, depression, excessive hair growth, high blood pressure, humped upper back, insomnia, moon-faced appearance, muscle weakness, obese trunk, paranoia, stretch marks, susceptibility to bruising, fractures, infections, retardation of growth, wasted limbs

Cushing's syndrome may also trigger the development of diabetes mellitus. Left uncorrected, the syndrome may become serious. If you suspect your use of Diprolene has led to this problem, seek medical attention immediately.