Betamethasone

Betamethasone is a potent corticosteroid (III) used to reduce inflammation and suppress immune responses. Read more

Betamethasone is a potent corticosteroid (III) used to reduce inflammation and suppress immune responses.

Essential insights

• Anti-inflammatory effect: Betamethasone binds to glucocorticoid receptors in cells, inhibiting the production of inflammatory mediators like prostaglandins and leukotrienes.
• Immunosuppressive action: It suppresses immune cell activity, reducing the response to allergens, autoimmune conditions, and hypersensitivity reactions.
• Reduction of swelling and pain: By decreasing inflammation, betamethasone helps reduce swelling, redness, and pain associated with various conditions like skin disorders, arthritis, allergic reactions or immune-mediated diseases.

Breed-specific drug reactions

Lhasa Apsos, Poodles, Shih Tzus, Australian Silky Terriers, Yorkshire Terriers, and Dachshunds have a breed-specific sensitivity to subcutaneous injections of glucocorticoids, like betamethasone, which can lead to localized areas of alopecia. This reaction may result in permanent hair loss or skin changes at the injection site.

Due to this risk, the use of subcutaneous glucocorticoids is not recommended in these dog breeds.