Betamethasone
Also known as: Gentocin Durafilm (historical), Isaderm, Osurnia, Otomax, Betnesol, Maxidex
**Administration:** Apply exactly as directed by your veterinarian. Wash your hands before and after applying the medication. Do not touch the dropper tip to the eye or any other surface. **Safety:** **Never** use this medication without a veterinarian's explicit instruction, especially if your pet is squinting or has a red eye, as it can cause severe damage or loss of the eye if a corneal scratch or ulcer is present. **Monitoring:** Contact your veterinarian immediately if your pet's eye becomes cloudier, more painful, or if discharge increases.
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
What it is used for
How it is given
Possible side effects
- Delayed corneal healing
- Increased intraocular pressure (IOP)
- Potentiation of ocular infections
- Systemic absorption leading to adrenal suppression (rare with topical use but possible in small patients)
Cautions & contraindications
- Suspected corneal abrasion
- Corneal ulceration
- Feline herpes keratitis (FHV-1)
- > **Warning:** This preparation should **never** be utilized if corneal abrasion or ulceration are suspected. It is strictly contraindicated in cats with suspected or confirmed herpes keratitis due to the risk of severe exacerbation and corneal melting.
Drug interactions
- NSAIDs: Increased risk of GI ulceration
- Insulin: Glucocorticoids antagonize the effect of insulin
- Phenobarbital: May accelerate the metabolism of corticosteroids
- Itraconazole: May decrease the metabolism of corticosteroids
- Acetazolamide: Increased risk of hypokalaemia
- Amphotericin: Increased risk of hypokalaemia
- Furosemide: Increased risk of hypokalaemia
- Thiazide diuretics: Increased risk of hypokalaemia
Frequently asked questions
What is Betamethasone used for in pets?
**Administration:** Apply exactly as directed by your veterinarian. Wash your hands before and after applying the medication. Do not touch the dropper tip to the eye or any other surface. **Safety:** **Never** use this medication without a veterinarian's explicit instruction, especially if your pet is squinting or has a red eye, as it can cause severe damage or loss of the eye if a corneal scratch or ulcer is present. **Monitoring:** Contact your veterinarian immediately if your pet's eye becomes cloudier, more painful, or if discharge increases.
Is Betamethasone safe for my pet?
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell, please consult a veterinarian.
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