• Betacap is a solution designed to be applied to areas of inflammation on the scalp, including eczema and dermatitis
• The active ingredient in Betacap is betamethasone valerate
• Betacap contains a potent steroid and should be used sparingly
• Betacap should not be used on areas of infected skin
• Betacap contains alcohol which is flammable, care must therefore be taken when using it
• It is important to read the patient leaflet for a full list of side effects and cautions.

Eczema and dermatitis occur when there is inflammation of the skin cells. Irritation of the skin associated with these conditions causes the immune system to release chemicals that cause the blood vessels to widen. This leads to the skin becoming red, sore, and swollen. The increase in inflammatory cells including white blood cells then leads to further swelling and irritation. 

Betacap contains the steroid betamethasone valerate. Steroids dampen down the immune response, helping to resolve the inflammation on the skin. 

Betacap is a potent treatment that is usually only prescribed when milder forms of steroid treatments have not cleared up the area of inflammation. 

Betacap comes in the form of a solution that should be applied directly to the areas of inflammation, using the nozzle of the bottle. Alternatively, a small amount of solution can be rubbed into the affected area using your fingers. 

Betacap should be used sparingly. Steroids can cause skin thinning when used in large quantities over a long period of time. You should wash your hands after applying the solution to avoid your hands being affected by the steroid.

It is best to apply the solution to clean, dry hair. Avoid washing your hair after applying the solution, as this will also wash the solution off, making it less effective.

Betacap contains alcohol which is flammable. You must use the solution away from flames, lit objects including gas and electric fires, lit cigarettes and heat sources including hairdryers. Always allow the area of your scalp to dry naturally after applying the solution.

Betacap is usually applied sparingly twice a day, in the morning and at night. Once an improvement is noticed, it is possible to reduce to using the solution once a day, or less frequently.

It can take around two to four weeks to notice an improvement. If there is no improvement after this time, stop using Betacap and seek further medical advice.

Like all medications, Betacap can have some side effects. The most common side effects include:

• Discomfort or a burning sensation on the skin
• Increased hair growth in the area
• Thinning of the skin when used for a long time
• Allergic skin reactions.

If you are concerned about any of these side effects, you should speak to your doctor for further advice.

Serious allergic reactions happen very rarely. If you have a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) including breathlessness, lip or tongue swelling, call 999 immediately.

Betacap may not be suitable for everyone. You should tell your doctor if you:

• Have acne
• Have rosacea
• Have psoriasis
• Have glaucoma or cataracts
• Have infected areas of skin such as infected eczema or a fungal skin infection
• Have ever had an allergic reaction to a skin cream, ointment, or solution
• Are pregnant, trying to conceive, or breastfeeding.

Some medications can interact with Betacap. You may be advised that Betacap will not suit you if you already take another steroid containing skin preparation or a topical treatment for skin inflammation.

Because Betacap may not suit everyone, we will complete a Consultation with you including a health questionnaire. This will ensure that the medication will be suitable for you.

A qualified prescriber will review your current medications, including any herbal remedies or supplements, to ensure that Betacap will not interact with them. 

Once prescribed, Betacap will be ordered on your behalf via electronic prescription, allowing you to pick the medication up at your convenience.

Can I buy Betacap online?

You can safely buy Betacap online at EU Meds. You will first need to have an online consultation with a pharmacist independent prescriber before your order will be supplied. The online consultation will ensure that Betacap is the right medication for your medical condition.

Do I need a prescription for Betacap?

Yes, in order to purchase Betacap you will need a valid prescription. Please note, all requests for supply of prescription medications are subject to an online clinical consultation and the decision to prescribe will be made by a doctor.