Drug Notes

Betamethasone dipropionate, augmented (On the skin)

Betamethasone Dipropionate, Augmented (bay-ta-METH-a-sone dye-PROE-pee-oh-nate, ahg-MEN-ted)

Relieves skin pain, swelling, and itching. This medicine is a corticosteroid.

Brand Name(s):

Diprolene, Diprolene AF, RRB Pak

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Cream, Gel/Jelly, Lotion, Ointment

• Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
• This medicine is not for long-term use. Do not use this medicine for longer than 2 weeks unless directed by your doctor.
• 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.
• Wash your hands with soap and water before and after you use this medicine.
• Apply a thin layer of the medicine to the affected area. Rub it in gently.
• 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.

• Some medicines can affect how betamethasone works. Tell your doctor if you are using another steroid medicine, such as hydrocortisone, methylprednisolone, or prednisone.
• Do not put cosmetics or skin care products on the treated skin.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Do not use this medicine to treat a skin problem your doctor has not examined.
• Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.
• 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
• Headache and vision problems
• Signs of skin infection, such as swelling, redness, warmth, pus, or oozing
• Weight gain around your neck, upper back, face, or waist

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

• Excessive hair growth
• Increased thirst or appetite
• Itching or redness around your lips
• Skin redness, pain, itching, irritation, discoloration, or dryness

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