Locations:

Betamethasone Foam

What is this medication?

BETAMETHASONE (bay ta METH a sone) reduces swelling, redness, itching, or rashes caused by skin conditions, such as psoriasis. It works by decreasing inflammation of the skin. It belongs to a group of medications called topical steroids.

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This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Luxiq Foam

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • Large areas of burned or damaged skin
  • Skin infection
  • Thinning or wrinkling of the skin
  • An unusual or allergic reaction to betamethasone, steroids, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
  • Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
  • Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medication is for use on the scalp. It is for external use only. Do not take by mouth. Wash your hands before and after use. Do not get it in your eyes. If you do, rinse your eyes with plenty of cool tap water. Use it as directed on the label. Do not use it more often than directed.

Hold can upside down and release a small amount of foam onto a saucer or other cool surface. Do not put foam directly onto hands because foam will begin to melt immediately in your hands. Pick up small amounts of foam with fingers and gently massage onto scalp area until foam disappears. Repeat until entire affected scalp area is treated. Do not wash or rinse the treated area immediately after applying the foam. Do not use an airtight bandage to cover the affected area unless your care team tells you to. Covering the area can increase the amount that passes through the skin and increase the risk of side effects.

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Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medication?

Interactions are not expected. Do not use any other skin products on the same area of skin without talking to your care team.

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. Tell your care team if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse.

Call your care team if you are around anyone with measles, chickenpox, or if you develop sores or blisters that do not heal properly.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

  • Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Burning, itching, crusting, or peeling of treated skin
  • Fragile or thinning skin that bruises easily
  • Skin infection—skin redness, swelling, warmth, or pain
  • Small, red, pus-filled bumps on skin around hair follicles

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

  • Mild skin irritation, redness, or dryness
  • Unexpected hair growth at application site

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

Store between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Get rid of any unused medication after the expiration date.

This medication is flammable. Avoid exposure to heat, fire, flame, and smoking.

To get rid of medications that are no longer needed or have expired:

  • Take the medication to a medication take-back program. Check with your pharmacy or law enforcement to find a location.
  • If you cannot return the medication, ask your pharmacist or care team how to get rid of this medication safely.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

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Note: Introduction and Additional Common Questions written and medically approved by Cleveland Clinic professionals.

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