Drug Notes

Betamethasone valerate (On the skin)

Betamethasone Valerate (bay-ta-METH-a-sone VAL-er-ate)

Treats swelling and itching of the skin. This medicine is a corticosteroid.

Brand Name(s):

Luxiq

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Cream, Foam, Lotion, Ointment

• Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
• Use this medicine only on your skin. Rinse it off right away if it gets on a cut or scrape. Do not get the medicine in your eyes, nose, or mouth.
• Foam: Turn the can upside down and spray a small amount onto a cool surface, such as a plate. Do not spray the foam into your hand, because the foam will melt. Use your fingers to pick up the foam and rub it into your skin.
• Do not inhale this medicine or use it near heat or an open flame. Do not puncture, break, or burn the aerosol can.
• Do not cover the treated area with a bandage unless directed by your doctor.
• Missed dose: Apply a dose as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and apply a regular dose. Do not apply extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
• Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Do not put cosmetics or skin care products on the treated skin.
• Tell your doctor if you are using any other steroid medicine.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Tell your doctor if you have diabetes. This medicine may raise the levels of sugar in your blood or urine.
• Children may be more likely to have side effects from this medicine. This medicine may also slow your child's growth. If you think your child is not growing properly while he is using this medicine, talk with your doctor.
• Do not use this medicine to treat a skin problem your doctor has not examined.
• Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Bulging of the soft spot on your baby's head
• Headaches and problems with vision
• Signs of skin infection, such as swelling, redness, warmth, pus, or oozing
• Weight gain around your neck, upper back, breast, face, or waist

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Acne or tiny pimples on the skin, dry skin
• Burning, itching, or irritation where the medicine is applied
• Changes in skin color
• Excessive hair growth

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 1/27/2017