Brand name:
Diprolene
Pronounced: dye-PROH-leen
Generic name:
Betamethasone dipropionate
Other brand names:
Diprosone
Why is Diprolene prescribed?
Diprolene, a synthetic cortisone-like steroid available in cream,
gel, lotion, or ointment form, is used to treat certain itchy rashes
and other inflammatory skin conditions. Its sister product Diprosone
is available only as a cream.
Most important fact about Diprolene
When you use Diprolene, you inevitably absorb some of the
medication through your skin and into the bloodstream. Too much
absorption can lead to unwanted side effects elsewhere in the body.
To keep this problem to a minimum, avoid using large amounts of
Diprolene over large areas, and do not cover it with airtight
dressings such as plastic wrap or adhesive bandages.
How should you use Diprolene?
Apply Diprolene in a thin film, exactly as prescribed by your
doctor. A typical regimen is 1 or 2 applications per day. Do not use
Diprolene for longer than prescribed.
Diprolene is for use only on the skin. Be careful to keep it out
of your eyes.
Once you have applied Diprolene, never cover the skin with an
airtight bandage or other tight dressing.
For a fungal or bacterial skin infection, you will need
antifungal or antibacterial medication in addition to Diprolene. If
improvement is not prompt, you should stop using Diprolene until the
infection is visibly clearing.
--If you miss a dose...
Apply it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the
next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular
schedule.
--Storage instructions...
Store at room temperature.
Diprolene side effects
Side effects cannot be anticipated. A possible side effect of
Diprolene is stinging or burning of the skin where Diprolene is
applied.
- Other side effects on the skin may include:
Acne-like eruptions,
atrophy,
"broken" capillaries (fine reddish lines),
cracking or tightening,
dryness,
excess hair growth,
infected hair follicles,
inflammation,
irritation,
itching,
prickly heat,
rash,
redness,
sensitivity to touch
Diprolene can be absorbed and produce side effects elsewhere in
the body; see the "Overdosage" section below.
Why should Diprolene not be prescribed?
Do not use Diprolene if you are sensitive to it or any other
steroid medication.
Special warnings about Diprolene
Do not use Diprolene to treat any condition other than the one
for which it was prescribed.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Diprolene
Do not use Diprolene with any other steroid-containing product.
Such combinations increase the chance of absorption and side
effects.
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
It is not known whether Diprolene, when applied to skin, causes
any problem during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. It's considered
best for pregnant women to avoid the product unless its possible
benefits outweigh the potential risk. If it must be used, it should
not be applied extensively, in large amounts, or for a long period
of time.
Recommended dosage for Diprolene
ADULTS
Overdosage
With copious or prolonged use of Diprolene, hormone absorbed into
the bloodstream may cause high blood sugar, sugar in the urine, and
a group of symptoms called Cushing's syndrome.
- Symptoms of Cushing's syndrome may include:
Acne,
depression,
excessive hair growth,
high blood pressure,
humped upper back,
insomnia,
moon-faced appearance,
muscle weakness,
obese trunk,
paranoia,
stretch marks,
susceptibility to bruising, fractures, infections,
retardation of growth,
wasted limbs
Cushing's syndrome may also trigger the development of diabetes
mellitus. Left uncorrected, the syndrome may become serious. If you
suspect your use of Diprolene has led to this problem, seek medical
attention immediately.
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