betamethasone foam – topical, Luxiq
USES: This medication is used to treat scalp conditions like psoriasis and seborrhea. Betamethasone reduces inflammation, itching, and redness. It is a medium-strength corticosteroid.
HOW TO USE: Before using this medication, read the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist. Apply the foam to the scalp twice daily, in the morning and evening. Dispense enough foam to cover the affected areas and gently massage it in until absorbed. Do not cover the area with bandages or wash/rinse the medication immediately. Use regularly at the same times each day. Do not apply large amounts, more frequently, or for a longer period than prescribed. Contact your doctor if your condition does not improve after 2 weeks or worsens.
SIDE EFFECTS: Burning, itching, or stinging may occur when applying this medication, but usually only briefly. If these effects persist or worsen, contact your doctor. Serious side effects are rare, but include stretch marks, skin thinning/discoloration, acne, excessive hair growth, and "hair bumps" (folliculitis). Contact your doctor immediately if you experience extreme tiredness, weight loss, headache, swelling ankles/feet, increased thirst/urination, or vision problems. Seek immediate medical attention if you have a serious allergic reaction, such as rash, itching/swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
PRECAUTIONS: Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to betamethasone, other corticosteroids, or have any other allergies. Before using this medication, discuss your medical history, especially poor blood circulation and a weakened immune system. Do not use if you have a scalp infection. Inform your doctor promptly if your condition does not improve or if you get a skin infection. It may be more challenging for your body to respond to physical stress if you use corticosteroids for a long time or on large areas of the skin. Inform your doctor before surgery or emergency treatment. It is unknown if this medication affects a child’s growth or passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Inform your doctor and pharmacist of all the products you use before starting treatment. Certain drugs or herbal products can interact and change the effects of betamethasone. This can increase your risk for serious side effects or cause your medications to not work correctly. Your doctor or pharmacist can prevent or manage interactions by adjusting your medication usage or monitoring closely. Keep a list of all the products you use and share it with your doctor and pharmacist to minimize the risk of potential complications.
OVERDOSE: If swallowing or overdose is suspected, contact a poison control center or emergency room immediately.
NOTES: Do not share this medication. It is prescribed for your current condition only. Laboratory and/or medical tests may be conducted periodically to monitor your progress and check for side effects, especially if you use this drug for an extended period or over large areas of the body.
MISSED DOSE: If you forget a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual schedule. Do not double the dose.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature and away from direct sunlight. Keep away from heat, fire, and open flame. Do not smoke during or immediately after applying this medication. Do not puncture or burn the container. Keep all medicines away from children and pets. Properly discard expired or unused product following the instructions provided by your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.
Information last revised March 2013. Copyright(c) 2013 First Databank, Inc.
