betamethasone and gentamicin

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum:

betamethasone and gentamicin may be combined in a topical cream or ointment. The combination is used to treat certain skin conditions that involve both inflammation and bacterial infection. The betamethasone component provides the anti-inflammatory effect, while gentamicin targets the bacterial infection.

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency defined

1-10%

Itching

>10%

Increased appetite

Nervousness

Blurred vision

Indigestion

Frequency undefined

Cataracts

Arthralgia

Dizziness

Edema

DM

Erythema (topical)

Seizure

Headache

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning:

None

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication / Caution:

Contraindications:

Hypersensitivity: betamethasone and gentamicin should not be used in individuals who have a known hypersensitivity or allergic reaction to these medications or any of their components.

Viral Infections: betamethasone and gentamicin should not be used on skin areas affected by viral infections such as herpes simplex, varicella (chickenpox), or vaccinia (cowpox).

Tuberculosis: These medications should not be applied to areas of the skin with tuberculosis infections.

Cautions:

Bacterial Resistance: Prolonged or improper use of gentamicin may lead to the development of bacterial resistance, making it less effective in treating infections.

Systemic Absorption: Topical betamethasone can be absorbed through the skin into the bloodstream, especially if used in large quantities or on large areas of the body. This can potentially lead to systemic side effects, particularly if used for an extended period.

Fungal Infections: betamethasone may suppress the body’s immune response, which could worsen fungal skin infections. It should be used cautiously, and the presence of a fungal infection should be ruled out or treated appropriately before using this medication.

Bacterial Superinfection: Using betamethasone on bacterial skin infections without concurrent antibiotic therapy may lead to bacterial overgrowth or superinfection. If the infection worsens or does not improve, additional appropriate treatment should be considered.

Pediatric Use: Caution should be exercised when using these medications in children, as they may absorb more of the drug through the skin than adults, potentially leading to systemic side effects.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The use of betamethasone and gentamicin during pregnancy and breastfeeding should be discussed with a healthcare provider, weighing the potential benefits against potential risks to the fetus or baby.

Eye Contact: Avoid getting these medications in the eyes, as it may cause irritation or damage to the eye. If eye contact occurs, rinse the eyes thoroughly with water and seek medical attention if necessary.

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy consideration: betamethasone can cross the placenta and partially metabolize into an inactive metabolite. 

Lactation: Betamethasone can be excreted in breast milk.  

Pregnancy category: 

• Category A: Satisfactory and well-controlled studies show no risk to the fetus in the first or later trimester. 
• Category B: There is no evidence of risk to the fetus found in animal reproduction studies and there are not enough studies on pregnant women. 
• Category C: Adverse effects on the fetus found with evidence in animal reproduction studies and no adequate evidence for an effect in humans, care must be taken for potential risks in pregnant women 
• Category D: There is adequate data available with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite potential risks may be used only in emergency cases for potential benefits. 
• Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh risks over benefits These category drugs should be prohibited for pregnant women. 
• Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category. 

Pharmacology

Adminstartion

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: betamethasone and gentamicin

Why do we use betamethasone and gentamicin? 

The combination of betamethasone and gentamicin in topical preparations allows for a comprehensive approach to treating certain inflammatory skin conditions that are also complicated by bacterial infections. The betamethasone component addresses the inflammation and itching, while the gentamicin component targets the bacterial infection. This combination is particularly useful when a patient presents with a condition that exhibits both inflammatory and infectious components.