Betamethasone nose drops Betnesol, Vistamethasone
Betamethasone nose drops are prescribed to treat inflammation in the nose. The usual dose is 2-3 drops in each nostril twice a day. |
About betamethasone nose drops
| Type of medicine | Corticosteroid nose drops |
| Used for | To treat inflamed nose conditions |
| Also called | Betamethasone sodium phosphate Brands include: Betnesol®; Vistamethasone® |
| Available as | Drops |
Betamethasone nose drops are used to treat inflammatory nose conditions. They contain a corticosteroid (sometimes called a 'steroid') which helps to relieve swelling, redness and irritation.
Before using betamethasone nose drops
To make sure this is the right treatment for you, before you start using betamethasone nose drops it is important that your doctor knows:
- If you have ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.
- If you think you have an infection in your nose.
- If you have recently had any surgery on your nose.
- If you have tuberculosis (TB) in your lungs.
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
How to use betamethasone nose drops
- Before you use the drops, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from the pack. It will give you more information about betamethasone and will provide you with a full list of the side-effects which you could experience.
- It is usual to use two to three drops in each nostril twice a day, although it is important that you use the drops as you have been advised by your doctor if it is different to this.
- Blow your nose gently to clear it.
- Remove the cap from the bottle.
- In order to put the drops in so that the solution spreads all over the inside of your nose, it is best to lie on a bed with your head hanging backwards over an edge. An alternative is to kneel or bend forwards with your head down. (Do not stand with your head just tipped backwards, as the drops will not reach all the surfaces inside your nose if you do this.)
- Put two or three drops into each nostril. Stay lying or bending down for two minutes after putting in the drops before getting up. This is so that the liquid stays for a while in your nose and does not immediately run out of your nose or down the back of your throat.
- Replace the cap on the bottle after using the drops.
Getting the most from your treatment
- Do not use the drops for longer than a week unless your doctor has specifically told you to do so.
- Do not let anyone else use your drops and do not use anyone else's drops yourself.
Can betamethasone nose drops cause problems?
You may get a slight feeling of irritation or dryness. This is usually mild and soon passes. If you develop a skin rash or if you notice any other symptoms which you think may be due to the drops, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
How to store betamethasone nose drops
- Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
- Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
- In order to prevent the risk of infection, throw away any solution left in the bottle after you have finished your course of treatment. Do not keep it to use another time. Nose drops only keep for four weeks once the bottle has been opened.
Important information about all medicines
Never use more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that someone has swallowed some of this medicine, go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital. Take the container with you, even if it is empty. This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours. Do not keep out-of-date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you. If you are having an operation or any medical treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking. If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are suitable to take with your other medicines. If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist. |
Further reading and references
Manufacturer's PIL, Vistamethasone® 0.1% w/v Drops or Betamethasone 0.1% w/v Drops; Martindale Pharmaceuticals Ltd, The electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated March 2020.
Medicines Complete BNF 85th Edition; British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London.