Betnesol-N

Betnesol-N is used to reduce inflammation when there may also be a risk of bacterial infection. At HealthExpress, you can get a prescription for Betnesol-N Drops to treat ear infections (otitis externa).

Betnesol-N contains the active ingredient betamethasone at a concentration of 0.1% as well as 0.5% neomycin sulphate. The treatment is a colourless to light yellow liquid that is applied as drops to the inflamed area.

In addition to treating ear infections, Betnesol-N can also be used to treat inflammation of the eyes and nose. However, if using the treatment for anything but ear infections, please consult the patient leaflet for instructions and further information.

Betnesol-N contains two separate ingredients that work in combination:

• Betamethasone is a topical corticosteroid. Corticosteroids suppress an overactive immune system, reducing itching, soreness and redness (inflammation).
• Because Betnesol-N also contains neomycin sulphate (an antibiotic), it prevents bacterial infections from developing. Antibiotics stop bacteria from producing proteins needed for growth, meaning your body can more easily fight off an infection.

This dual-action makes Betnesol-N very effective at treating outer-ear infections.

Betnesol-N comes in a plastic bottle of 5 ml or 10 ml. The bottles have a built-in nozzle. Before using, ensure that they have not been tampered with - the seal on the bottle should not be broken before first use.

Wash and dry your hands before applying treatment.

For the treatment of ear infections, the usual dose is 2 to 3 drops into the ear 3 to 4 times daily. When symptoms begin to ease (less redness, itching and soreness), you can apply the treatment less frequently.

If you miss a dose, take the next as usual. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed dose.

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to take Betnesol-N for an ear infection:

1. tilt your head (the inflamed ear should be facing upwards)
2. put the required number of drops (usually 2-3) in the ear canal, you may need to give the bottle a gentle squeeze
3. your head should remain tilted for a few minutes (1-2) to allow the drops to soak in
4. repeat this process for the other ear if needed
5. repeat this process 3-4 times every day, until the inflammation is starting to clear

If using the treatment for the eyes or nose, please refer to the patient information leaflet (PIL) for information on how to take the treatment.

When and how do I stop using Betnesol-N Drops?

You should stop using the treatment and speak to your GP if 7-10 days have passed with no improvement in your symptoms.

If you have been using this treatment for 6-8 weeks or longer, you should reduce the dose gradually before eventually stopping the treatment.

You should not stop using this treatment without speaking to your GP.

As with any medication there is a risk of experiencing some adverse effects. As this is a topical treatment, the most common side effects occur where the treatment is applied. When using this treatment in the ear, the most commonly reported side effects are:

• red, irritated or itchy skin
• a burning sensation of your skin
• stinging feeling of the skin

However, you may only start experiencing these after long-term use of the treatment.

If Betnesol-N is used for a long time, it may cause adrenal suppression, which means it can prevent your body from producing its own natural steroids. If you stop using it after long-term use, you could experience some of the following:

• itchy and painful skin
• cold/flu like symptoms such as a fever, a runny nose, muscle and joint pain
• low blood pressure
• weight loss

Please consult your doctor if you experience any of the above, and do not suddenly stop using Betnesol-N without consulting your doctor, especially if you have been prescribed it for long-term use.

If you are taking any other medicines; either herbal, prescription-only or over-the-counter, you should inform your doctor before taking Betnesol-N.

If you are currently taking medicines for HIV (such as ritonavir and cobicistat), your doctor may want to monitor you carefully as these medicines may increase the effects of the drops.

Consult with your GP before using this treatment if:

• the area of which you are treating has open wounds or damaged skin - the antibiotic can cause permanent damage (including partial or total deafness)
• you have tuberculosis
• you are pregnant - there may be a small risk to the foetus if using while pregnant
• the treatment is for an infant or a small child - the adrenal gland in babies can stop working properly with prolonged use as well as permanent damage can happen if medication is given in high doses
• you are breastfeeding or planning to become pregnant
• you are taking any other medicines - prescription only, over the counter or herbal remedies as there may be interactions and contraindications

You should not use Betnesol-N or other corticosteroids for an extended period. If you have recently taken corticosteroids, you should ensure you have regular checkups with your GP.

Do not use this medicine if:

• you are allergic to betamethasone or any of the other ingredients (see the patient information leaflet for the full list)
• you have a perforated eardrum
• you have a patent grommet

Yes. You will first need to complete a medical questionnaire and provide some details about your health - it is important you include information about both past and current medical conditions along with any medications you are using.

A prescription will be issued if the doctor confirms the treatment is safe for you to take. Once approved, your treatment will be dispatched from our pharmacy and sent via your preferred delivery method. Orders are typically delivered by the next working day.