Betnovate-N
Betnovate-N is a cream made by GSK that contains Betamethasone 0.1% + Neomycin 0.5%. It combines Betamethasone: strong steroid (skin) and Neomycin: antibiotic (skin).
| Ingredient (salt) | Amount |
|---|---|
| Betamethasone | 0.1% |
| Neomycin | 0.5% |
Betamethasone
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.
Neomycin
What it is used for
Prevents or treats bacterial infection in minor cuts and wounds.
How it works
An aminoglycoside antibiotic used in skin creams and ear or eye drops for surface bacterial infections.
How to take it
Apply thinly 2 to 3 times a day for no more than 7 to 10 days.
Common side effects
Skin allergy (contact dermatitis) is common
Get medical help straight away if
- Rash spreads or worsens
- Hearing changes with ear drops in a perforated eardrum
Be careful
Can cause skin allergy in some people.
Other medicines and interactions
Not for large wounds or broken eardrums. Avoid using for long.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Short skin use is generally acceptable; ask a doctor.
Common questions
What is Betnovate-N?
Betnovate-N is a cream by GSK containing Betamethasone 0.1% + Neomycin 0.5%.
What is Betnovate-N used for?
Reduces inflammation and itching in eczema, psoriasis and allergic skin conditions. Prevents or treats bacterial infection in minor cuts and wounds.
How should I take Betnovate-N?
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. Apply thinly 2 to 3 times a day for no more than 7 to 10 days. Always follow the dose your doctor or the pack gives.
What are the side effects of Betnovate-N?
Common side effects include: Skin thinning, stretch marks, acne, lighter skin patches, worsening of fungal infections (tinea), Skin allergy (contact dermatitis) is common. Get medical help straight away for: Rash spreads after stopping, skin very thin or bruising, mood changes or high sugar with tablets, Rash spreads or worsens, hearing changes with ear drops in a perforated eardrum.
Does Betnovate-N 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 Betnovate-N in pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
Short use of creams on small areas is acceptable in pregnancy; avoid on the breasts while breastfeeding. Short skin use is generally acceptable; ask a doctor.
What are the substitutes for Betnovate-N?
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
- Betamethasone: NHS · MedlinePlus
- Neomycin: NHS · MedlinePlus
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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