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Betamethasone
Brand names for Betamethasone are Alphatrex, Beta-val, Celestone, Phoshate, etc. This medication also comes in a generic brand.
What is Betamethasone?
Betamethasone is a steroid it reduces swelling and increases the body’s immune system. It is used to treat many conditions such as Hormonal disorders when the body dose not make enough of it’s own steroids. It is also used for immune and allergy disorders which can in clued any of the following….
- Arthritis
- Lupus
- Asthma
- Ulcers
Important things to know about this medication.
Do not stop taking this medication if you have been taking it for more than a couple of weeks, your doctor will reduce your dose if he thinks you need it. Take this medication with milk or food if it bothers your stomach. Be sure to also carry a medical ID bracelet or card to make sure others know you are taking this medication in case to you have an accident or other emergency where you may be unresponsive at the time.
When not to take Betamethasone.
You should not take it if you have any serious, bacterial, viral, or any fungal infections. Because it can make your body weak, and keep your body from fighting infection. Tell you’re if you have any of these illnesses….
- Kidney disease
- Liver disease
- High blood pressure
- Heart disease
- Stomach ulcers
- Diabetes
You may be able to take this medication if you have this illnesses or you may not your doctor will let you know what he fills is right for you. If you are pregnant or might become pregnant tell your doctor because it id not known if this medication will harm an unborn baby. Also if you are breast feeding the medication may enter the baby through the breast milk so be sure to ask your doctor if it is safe to breast feed while on this medication.
How to take Betamethasone
Take this medication just like the doctor tells you to take it do not take any more or any less. If you do not understand how to take this medication as your doctor or pharmacist to explain it to you. Be sure to take each dose wit ha full glass of water. If you are taking it in a liquid form measure it with a dropper or medication spoon or cup. If you were prescribed one dose a day the best time to take it would be at 9:00 am so that it works with your body’s natural cycle. But it you take more then one dose a day space out the doses through out the day. Be sure to store this medication away from heat and moisture. If you miss a dose take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for a second dose skip the dose you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take 2 doses at one time.
In case of an overdose.
This medication is not known to cause death even with an overdose. Symptoms of an overdose may not appear right away it make take a while and could include any of the following….
- Obesity
- Hair growth
- Acne
- Brusing
- Swollen hands/feet
- Sore or weak muscles
If you have any of the above symptoms talk to your doctor to see if you might have taken an overdose of this medication.
Side effects of Betamethasone
If you have any of the following serious side effects go to your doctor or local emergency room right away. Also stop taking the medication as soon as you feel you might be having a reaction to it.
- Increased blood pressure
- Extreme weight gain
Less serious side effects….
- Trouble sleeping
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Dizziness
There are also rare side effects which could include….
- Thinning of the skin
- Cataracts
- Glaucoma
Drug interactions
Do not take prescription drugs or over the counter drugs not even herbs without asking your doctor fist because they could interact with this medication.
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