Beclometasone cream and ointment are used to treat itching, swollen and irritated skin. They can help with conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and dermatitis.
Beclometasone (sometimes written as beclomethasone) is a type of medicine known as a steroid (also called a corticosteroid). This is not the same as an anabolic steroid.
When you have an allergic reaction or your skin is irritated, chemicals are released into the skin. Beclometasone cream stops these chemicals getting to your skin and also helps to reduce swelling, redness and itching.
It's stronger than some other steroid skin creams such as hydrocortisone.
Beclometasone skin cream is available on prescription only.
Beclometasone also comes as:
- beclometasone inhalers – for asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- beclometasone nasal (nose) spray – for hay fever and cold-like symptoms caused by common allergies (rhinitis)
- beclometasone tablets – for ulcerative colitis
Key facts
- It's important to follow the instructions when using a steroid skin cream or ointment. This helps to avoid side effects.
- Only use a steroid skin treatment if your doctor prescribes it for you. Do not use someone else's medicine.
- If you use beclomeasone skin cream for a long time, your doctor may advise you to reduce your dose gradually, to avoid withdrawal reactions.
- Creams are better for skin that's moist or weepy. Ointments are thicker and greasier, and are better for dry or flaky skin.
- Beclometasone skin cream will not help with conditions such as acne or rosacea.
- Only use beclometasone on your face if your doctor says it's OK to.
- You may get a blue steroid treatment card if your doctor has prescribed a very high dose of beclomethasone cream to control your symptoms. Show this card to your doctor or dentist before any treatment, so they know you're using it. You may also need to carry a red steroid emergency card (for adults) or an adrenal insufficiency card (for children). Ask your pharmacist or doctor about both of these.