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SENSORY ORGANS › OTOLOGICALS › CORTICOSTEROIDS › Corticosteroids
betamethasone
S02BA07
Forms & Strengths
- Otic Solution: 0.1% (as betamethasone sodium phosphate)
Adult Dosing
- Instill 3 to 4 drops into the affected ear(s) 2 to 3 times daily
- Duration of therapy should be limited to 10 days
Pediatric Dosing
- Children >= 6 years: Instill 3 to 4 drops into the affected ear(s) 2 to 3 times daily
- Safety and efficacy in children < 6 years have not been established
Indications
- Treatment of steroid-responsive inflammatory conditions of the external auditory canal (e.g., acute otitis externa)
Mechanism of Action
- Potent glucocorticoid that binds to intracellular corticosteroid receptors
- Suppresses the inflammatory response by inhibiting phospholipase A2 via lipocortins, reducing the release of arachidonic acid and subsequent inflammatory mediators
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to betamethasone or other corticosteroids
- Untreated fungal, bacterial, or viral infections of the ear (including herpes simplex, vaccinia, and varicella)
Adverse Reactions
- Local burning or stinging
- Pruritus
- Dry skin
- Secondary infection with prolonged use
- Hypersensitivity reactions
Drug Interactions
- Significant systemic interactions are unlikely due to minimal systemic absorption following otic administration
- Co-administration with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may theoretically increase systemic exposure if absorbed
Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use