Diprosone

Diprosone (also marketed as Diproderm) contains betamethasone dipropionate, a potent topical corticosteroid for the treatment of severe inflammatory skin conditions including eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis. Betamethasone dipropionate is the ester form that provides enhanced skin penetration and sustained anti-inflammatory activity at the site of inflammation.

How to Apply Diprosone

Apply a thin layer of Diprosone (betamethasone dipropionate) cream or ointment to the affected area once or twice daily. Rub in gently. Use the minimum amount needed to cover the area — thicker application does not improve results but increases the risk of side effects.

Diprosone is a potent corticosteroid. Use it for the shortest time necessary to bring the skin condition under control. For most flares, two to four weeks is the usual maximum continuous period before a review. Do not apply to the face, armpits, or groin unless specifically prescribed for these areas, as skin in these locations is more susceptible to thinning with potent steroids.

Occlusive Dressings

Do not cover treated skin with airtight or occlusive dressings unless instructed by your doctor, as this significantly increases corticosteroid absorption and the risk of systemic and local side effects.

Apply once or twice daily. Treatment should not exceed 4 weeks without review. Do not use on the face or skin folds without specialist guidance.

Common Side Effects

Local skin effects are the most frequently reported with Diprosone:

• Skin thinning (atrophy) with prolonged or repeated use
• Stretch marks (striae)
• Increased visibility of blood vessels (telangiectasia)
• Acne-like skin eruptions
• Skin pallor or pigment change at the application site

Systemic Absorption

With prolonged use over large areas or under occlusive dressings, enough betamethasone can be absorbed to affect the body's own cortisol production (adrenal suppression). This is rare with short courses used correctly but is more of a concern in children and with prolonged treatment. If you have used Diprosone for an extended period, do not stop suddenly without medical advice, as the skin condition may rebound severely.

Potent steroid; use under medical supervision. Avoid prolonged use on the face, groin, and axillae. Use with caution in children.

Contraindicated in untreated skin infections, rosacea, acne vulgaris, perioral dermatitis, and known hypersensitivity to betamethasone.