Description
Diprolene (betamethasone dipropionate) is a prescription topical corticosteroid used to relieve inflammation and itching caused by corticosteroid-responsive skin conditions. These may include certain types of eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis, and other inflammatory skin disorders when a healthcare provider determines that a potent topical steroid is appropriate.
Betamethasone dipropionate works by reducing skin inflammation, redness, swelling, and itching. Diprolene is considered a high-potency corticosteroid, so it is usually used for short periods and only on the areas of skin your doctor has directed you to treat.
| Fact Table |
| Formula |
C28H37FO7 |
| License |
US FDA |
| Bioavailability |
Minimal systemic absorption (topical) |
| Legal status |
Rx-only |
| Chemical Name |
Betamethasone dipropionate |
| Elimination half-life |
Not available |
| Dosage (Strength) |
0.05% cream, lotion, ointment |
| Pregnancy |
Consult a doctor |
| Brands |
Diprolene, Diprolene AF, Diprosone, Sernivo |
| Protein binding |
64% |
| PubChem CID |
21800 |
| MedlinePlus |
a682799 |
| ChEBI |
31276 |
| ATC code |
D07AC01 |
| DrugBank |
DBSALT000851 |
| KEGG |
D01637 |
| Routes of administration |
Topical |
Directions
You can buy Diprolene with a valid prescription from your healthcare provider. Use Diprolene exactly as prescribed, as the dose and treatment length may vary depending on the condition being treated, the affected area, your age, and the specific formulation.
Apply a thin layer of Diprolene to the affected skin once or twice daily, or as directed by your doctor. Gently rub it in until it is absorbed. Wash your hands after applying Diprolene unless your hands are the treated area.
Do not apply Diprolene to the eyes, face, groin, underarms, or broken skin unless your healthcare provider specifically tells you to. Do not cover the treated area with bandages, wraps, or airtight dressings unless directed, as this can increase absorption and raise the risk of side effects.
Diprolene is usually not recommended for long-term continuous use. Contact your healthcare provider if your symptoms do not improve, worsen, or return after treatment.
Ingredients
The active ingredient in Diprolene is betamethasone dipropionate.
Inactive ingredients vary depending on the formulation, such as cream, ointment, gel, or lotion, and may also vary by manufacturer. Check the package insert or ask your pharmacist if you need to confirm the inactive ingredients, especially if you have allergies or sensitivities.
Cautions
Before using Diprolene, tell your healthcare provider about your full medical history, including any skin infections, thinning skin, circulation problems, diabetes, immune system conditions, or previous reactions to topical steroids.
Because Diprolene is a high-potency corticosteroid, using too much, using it for too long, applying it to large areas, or covering the treated area can increase the amount absorbed into the body. This may raise the risk of adrenal suppression, which means the body may make less of its natural steroid hormones.
Children may absorb proportionally larger amounts of topical corticosteroids and may be more sensitive to side effects. Diprolene should only be used in children when prescribed and closely monitored by a healthcare provider.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. If used during pregnancy or breastfeeding, your healthcare provider may recommend using the smallest effective amount for the shortest appropriate time. Do not apply Diprolene to the breast or nipple area before breastfeeding.
Contraindications
Do not use Diprolene if you are allergic to betamethasone dipropionate, other corticosteroids, or any ingredient in the product.
Diprolene should not be used on untreated bacterial, fungal, or viral skin infections unless your healthcare provider has prescribed appropriate treatment for the infection. Your doctor will determine whether Diprolene is suitable for your specific skin condition.
Side Effects
Common or local side effects may include:
- Burning, stinging, itching, or irritation at the application site
- Dryness or redness
- Skin peeling or rash
- Acne-like bumps
- Changes in skin colour
- Increased hair growth in the treated area
More serious or less common side effects may include:
- Skin thinning or fragile skin
- Stretch marks
- Visible small blood vessels
- Secondary skin infection
- Allergic contact dermatitis, which is an allergic skin reaction to something touching the skin
- Adrenal suppression, especially with prolonged use, large treatment areas, or covered skin
- High blood sugar or worsening diabetes control, especially if large amounts are absorbed
This is not a complete list of Diprolene side effects. Contact your healthcare provider if you notice persistent irritation, signs of infection, worsening symptoms, or any side effects that concern you.
References
-
U.S. Food and Drug Administration. DIPROLENE (augmented betamethasone dipropionate) prescribing information.
-
DailyMed. Betamethasone dipropionate augmented topical product labeling. U.S. National Library of Medicine.
Product details, approved uses, cautions, and inactive ingredients may vary by country and formulation. This page should be reviewed against the current local product monograph or prescribing information before publication.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.
Product Code : 1483
Prescription Required
