Betnovate

Betnovate is a popular treatment for various skin problems classified in the drug class of corticosteroids. As well as working effectively to treat conditions such as eczema and psoriasis, it is also medically proven to help alleviate the symptoms of piles. The anti-inflammatory properties of Betnovate mean it helps to reduce the unpleasant symptoms associated with such skin problems such as itching and swelling on the body.

The active ingredient used in Betnovate is a topical corticosteroid called betamethasone (0.1%), which is applied directly to the skin to provide effective relief. Inflammation of the skin is usually due to an allergic reaction or over-sensitivity of the skin, in the case of haemorrhoids it is due to the increase in pressure on the small veins and blood vessels near the anus, causing them to engorge with blood and become inflamed. Betamethasone works by acting inside the cells to reduce the release of chemicals that cause the inflammation.

Betnovate is an effective treatment for inflammatory skin disorders and is commonly used to treat conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and dermatitis. However, because this medication is used to treat inflammatory skin conditions and reduce symptoms like itching, irritation, burning and swelling, it can also be used to alleviate and provide relief of symptoms associated with haemorrhoids (piles).

Betnovate is a highly potent medication and therefore may be recommended as a haemorrhoids treatment if other medications have proved ineffective. Betnovate is available in cream, lotion or ointment form, allowing you to choose your preferred method.

There are a few considerations to be made when first using this treatment, please ensure you do read the attached patient information leaflet, to find out the full details of safe use regarding this treatment.

• You should always ensure you wash your hands before use, ensuring that the affected area is clean
• Make sure the affected area has been dried thoroughly and apply the Betnovate cream or ointment sparingly and evenly
• The treatment can be used two or three times daily depending on the severity of the problem
• When improvements are noticed then the application amount can be reduced gradually
• This remedy should only be used for external application and is usually prescribed for short-term use only, however further instructions on how to apply Betnovate will be included within your treatment

Betnovate is a very potent preparation therefore your symptoms should start improving within a week of use. Even if the symptoms do not get better after continuous use, the treatment should not be used longer than a 4 week period. It is best to speak to your GP if the symptoms of your skin problem or haemorrhoids have not yet subsided after this point.

You may not develop any side effects when using Betnovate cream or ointment, but it's always best to know the risks that come with any prescription medication. The side effects usually associated with this medicine include:

• Stretch marks
• Changes in skin pigmentation
• Skin irritation

Very rare side effects of the treatment include:

• Hair loss
• Thinning skin

If you are concerned by any side effects or you experience any unsightly side effects it is recommended to speak to a medical professional as soon as possible, or you can read the full list of possible side effects in the patient information leaflet.

Betnovate cream can be used by men and women over the age of 18. It is suitable for people suffering from the uncomfortable symptoms caused by haemorrhoids or other skin conditions such as dermatitis and psoriasis. However, Betnovate is not suitable for everyone with haemorrhoids and may not be prescribed in some cases. This includes those that:

• suffer from liver or kidney problems
• have rosacea or severe acne
• are pregnant or breastfeeding
• are allergic to the active ingredient betamethasone valerate

It is also essential that the treatment is kept away for the eyes, already broken or inflamed skin and avoid use if already taking medication containing neomycin or chlorhexidine.

For more information about side effects, interactions or precautions, please refer to the patient information leaflet, which is included with your medication and is also available for download on this page.

Betnovate is available to buy in securely at HealthExpress after you have completed a confidential online consultation. The details you provide us will be used by one of our doctors to determine whether the medication is suitable for you to use. Once approved, you will be able to complete the order online. You can then receive the treatment the next day anywhere in the UK.