How do beclometasone tablets work?
Beclometasone is a steroid (corticosteroid) medicine.
Steroids closely copy the effects of natural hormones produced in your adrenal glands. The adrenal glands are next to your kidneys.
Beclometasone tablets reduce swelling (inflammation) in your gut. They're usually used alongside other medicines for ulcerative colitis.
When will I feel better?
It usually takes 1 to 4 weeks for symptoms to start to get better. You need to take beclometasone tablets regularly for them to work fully.
Are there any long-term side effects?
Most people take beclometasone tablets for no more than 4 weeks.
If you take the tablets as your doctor or pharmacist recommends, you're unlikely to get any lasting side effects.
Do I need a steroid card?
Steroid emergency card (red card)
If you are prescribed repeated courses of beclometasone, or if you take other steroids as well, your adrenal glands may not make as much of some of the hormones your body needs such as cortisol (known as the stress hormone). This is known as adrenal insufficiency.
It's more likely to happen if you take high doses of steroids for a long time (especially tablets and injections) or if you regularly use different kinds of steroids at the same time (such as a steroid nasal spray and a steroid inhaler).
Your doctor or pharmacist will assess your risk of adrenal insufficiency based on the type and dose of steroids you're taking, and may recommend that you carry a steroid emergency card. This card is the size of a credit card and fits in your wallet or purse.
Important
If you've been given a steroid emergency card and you need any medical or dental treatment, or are having surgery or an invasive procedure, show your steroid emergency card to your doctor or dentist.
This is important so they know you are having steroid treatment and can give you extra steroids as needed.
Blue steroid card
If you're prescribed beclometasone for more than 3 weeks, your pharmacist or doctor will give you a blue steroid treatment card.
Carry this with you all the time.
The card is the size of a credit card, and fits in your wallet or purse. It tells you how to reduce the risks of side effects from steroids. It also gives details of your doctor, your dose of beclometasone and how long your treatment is expected to last.
If you do not have a blue steroid card, ask your pharmacist or doctor for one.
Important
If you need any medical or dental treatment, show your steroid card to the doctor or dentist.
Will it affect my contraception?
Beclometasone does not stop any type of contraception from working, including the combined pill and emergency contraception.
Can I drive or ride a bike?
Beclometasone can sometimes give you blurred vision.
If your eyesight is affected in any way, do not drive, cycle or use tools or machinery until your vision is back to normal.
It's an offence to drive a car if your ability to drive safely is affected. It's your responsibility to decide if it's safe to drive. If you're in any doubt, do not drive.
Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you're unsure whether it's safe for you to drive while taking beclometasone. GOV.UK has more information on the law on drugs and driving.
Can I drink alcohol while taking beclometasone?
Yes, you can drink alcohol while taking beclometasone tablets.
But if you have ulcerative colitis, you may find it better not to drink alcohol as it can make your diarrhoea worse.
Is there any food or drink I need to avoid?
You can eat and drink normally while taking beclometasone tablets.