Betnesol-N – Potent steroid-antibiotic combination for infected inflammatory conditions.
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What is Betnesol-N?
Betnesol-N provides potent anti-inflammatory and antibiotic action for infected inflammatory conditions where standard treatments have failed. The combination of a strong steroid with broad-spectrum antibiotic makes it particularly valuable for severe or resistant infected eczema and inflammatory skin conditions.
Book an online consultation if you have persistent infected eczema, inflammatory skin conditions that seem infected, ear infections with significant inflammation, or skin problems that haven’t responded to milder treatments. Our GPs can assess whether Betnesol-N or other combination treatments are appropriate for your specific condition.
What is Betnesol-N used for?
- Infected eczema and dermatitis
- Secondary bacterial skin infections
- Inflammatory ear conditions with infection
- Infected seborrhoeic dermatitis
- Post-operative inflammation with infection risk
- Infected psoriatic plaques
- Severe inflammatory skin conditions with bacterial component
How does Betnesol-N work?
Combines betamethasone (a potent corticosteroid that reduces inflammation, itching, and immune responses) with neomycin (a broad-spectrum antibiotic effective against gram-positive and some gram-negative bacteria), providing dual anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial action.
Dosage and Administration
Adults
Apply thin layer to affected area 2-3 times daily. Eye/ear drops: 1-2 drops every 2-4 hours initially, reducing as condition improves.
Children
Use with caution in children—apply sparingly and for shortest duration possible. Not recommended in babies without specialist supervision.
Important Notes
- Apply thin layer and rub in gently for skin preparations.
- For eye use: avoid touching dropper to eye or contaminating solution.
- Wash hands before and after application unless hands are being treated.
- Do not use for more than 7 days without medical review.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
- Local skin irritation or burning
- Skin thinning (with prolonged use)
- Allergic contact dermatitis
- Increased skin sensitivity
- Temporary stinging on application
Serious Side Effects
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Skin atrophy and stretch marks
- Delayed wound healing
- Secondary infections (fungal/viral)
- Systemic steroid effects (with extensive use)
- Ototoxicity (with ear use)
- Eye pressure changes (with eye use)
Important Warnings
- Do not use for more than 7 days without medical supervision.
- Avoid use on face, flexures, or genital areas unless specifically prescribed.
- Tell your GP if you have viral infections (herpes, chickenpox) as steroids can worsen these.
- Not suitable for fungal infections—may make them worse.
- Report any hearing changes if using in ears or vision changes if using in eyes.
Drug Interactions
Tell your GP if you're taking any of the following medications:
- Other ototoxic drugs—increased risk of hearing damage with ear use.
- Live vaccines—avoid if using extensively (systemic absorption).
- Generally minimal systemic interactions with topical use.
- May interact with other topical treatments—space applications apart.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is Betnesol-N different from using steroid and antibiotic separately?
The combination ensures both medications penetrate together in optimal ratios, often providing superior results for infected inflammatory conditions than separate applications.
Why shouldn't I use Betnesol-N for more than a week?
Prolonged steroid use can cause skin thinning, stretch marks, and increased infection risk. The antibiotic component can also lead to resistance if used too long.
Can I use Betnesol-N for any skin infection?
No, it's specifically for bacterial infections with inflammation. It won't work for fungal or viral infections and may actually make them worse.
Is it safe to use Betnesol-N around my eyes?
Only use the specific eye preparation near or in eyes. The skin cream should not be used near eyes as it can cause eye pressure problems.
Medically Reviewed by: Mohammed Hassan - Independent Prescriber
Last Updated: 2025-01-14