Betnesol

Tablet · GSK
PRESCRIPTION MEDICINE

Betnesol is a tablet made by GSK that contains Betamethasone 0.5 mg. Betamethasone is a strong steroid (skin): reduces inflammation and itching in eczema, psoriasis and allergic skin conditions.

Ingredient (salt)Amount
Betamethasone0.5 mg

What it is used for

Reduces inflammation and itching in eczema, psoriasis and allergic skin conditions.

How it works

A strong steroid cream or tablet that quickly reduces skin inflammation, redness and itch. Mixed creams with antibiotics or antifungals are heavily misused in India.

How to take it

Apply a thin layer once or twice a day for no more than 1 to 2 weeks; never use on the face, groin or for fungal rashes without a doctor. Tablets as prescribed.

Common side effects

  • Skin thinning
  • Stretch marks
  • Acne
  • Lighter skin patches
  • Worsening of fungal infections (tinea)

Get medical help straight away if

  • Rash spreads after stopping
  • Skin very thin or bruising
  • Mood changes or high sugar with tablets

Be careful

Do not use on the face or on fungal infections, or for long periods; misuse thins the skin.

Other medicines and interactions

Steroid creams can make ringworm much worse and harder to treat.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Short use of creams on small areas is acceptable in pregnancy; avoid on the breasts while breastfeeding.

Same ingredients, different strength or form

Common questions

What is Betnesol?

Betnesol is a tablet by GSK containing Betamethasone 0.5 mg.

What is Betnesol used for?

Reduces inflammation and itching in eczema, psoriasis and allergic skin conditions.

How should I take Betnesol?

Apply a thin layer once or twice a day for no more than 1 to 2 weeks; never use on the face, groin or for fungal rashes without a doctor. Tablets as prescribed. Always follow the dose your doctor or the pack gives.

What are the side effects of Betnesol?

Common side effects include: Skin thinning, stretch marks, acne, lighter skin patches, worsening of fungal infections (tinea). Get medical help straight away for: Rash spreads after stopping, skin very thin or bruising, mood changes or high sugar with tablets.

Does Betnesol need a prescription?

Yes. In India it is a prescription (Schedule H) medicine, so a pharmacist should sell it only with a doctor's prescription.

Can I take Betnesol in pregnancy or while breastfeeding?

Short use of creams on small areas is acceptable in pregnancy; avoid on the breasts while breastfeeding.

What are the substitutes for Betnesol?

We have no other brand with exactly the same composition and strength in our list yet. Ask your pharmacist for an equivalent.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Composition checked against pack details from large Indian online pharmacies. Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu.

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For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.