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
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