Diprolene Ointment

(Betamethasone Dipropionate)

The active ingredient in Diprolene Ointment is betamethasone dipropionate, which is a high-potency topical corticosteroid. It works by reducing inflammation in the skin. It decreases the release of substances in the body that cause redness, swelling, itching, and irritation. By calming the immune response in the affected skin, Diprolene Ointment helps improve symptoms linked to inflammatory skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information and patient information, before using Diprolene Ointment. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Diprolene Ointment:

• Wash your hands before and after applying the ointment, unless your hands are the treated area. Apply a thin film of Diprolene Ointment to the affected skin area. Gently rub the ointment into the skin until it is absorbed. Apply only to the affected area and avoid spreading it to surrounding healthy skin unless advised.
• Use the medication once daily, or twice daily if directed by your healthcare provider.
• Do not cover the treated area with occlusive dressings, bandages, or wraps unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
• Avoid use on the face, groin, or underarms unless directed by a healthcare professional.
• Do not use for longer than prescribed, as prolonged use increases the risk of adverse reactions and adrenal suppression.

Some mild or common side effects of Diprolene Ointment seen in clinical trials as compared to placebo include:

• Burning, stinging, or itching at the application site.
• Dryness or scaling of the skin.
• Redness or mild irritation.
• Folliculitis, which appears as small bumps around hair follicles.
• Skin rash or erythema.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Diprolene Ointment. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Signs of an allergic reaction, including hives, swelling, or severe itching.
• Severe skin thinning, skin atrophy, or stretch marks with prolonged use.
• Worsening skin infections or signs of infection, such as pus or increased pain.
• Symptoms of adrenal suppression or HPA axis suppression, including unusual tiredness, weakness, or weight gain.
• Vision changes that may be linked to glaucoma or cataracts when used near the eyes.
• Signs of Cushing’s syndrome, such as weight gain or changes in fat distribution, especially with long-term or extensive use.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Diprolene Ointment. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information that comes with this medication. You can also report adverse reactions to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Diprolene Ointment, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:

• A history of hypersensitivity or allergic reactions to topical corticosteroids.
• Skin infections, including bacterial, fungal, or viral infections.
• Thinning of the skin or poor skin healing.
• A history of glaucoma or cataracts.
• Conditions involving the adrenal gland or abnormal cortisol levels.
• Plans to use the medication on large surface areas or for prolonged periods.

• Have a known hypersensitivity to betamethasone dipropionate or any component of the formulation.
• Have untreated skin infections, including viral infections such as herpes simplex or chickenpox.
• Have fungal or tuberculosis skin infections unless appropriate therapy is also being used.

Many patients notice improvement in itching, redness, and swelling within a few days of starting treatment. For some skin conditions, it may take one to two weeks of consistent use to see full benefit. If there is no improvement within the timeframe advised by your healthcare provider, further evaluation may be needed.

When Diprolene Ointment is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Other topical and systemic corticosteroids.

Diprolene Ointment is available as betamethasone dipropionate 0.05% ointment. Other formulations of Diprolene exist, such as topical creams and lotions.

It should be stored at room temperature, away from the reach of children or pets.

Diprolene Ointment is manufactured by Organon.

Yes. The generic name for Diprolene Ointment is betamethasone dipropionate. Generic formulations are available and contain the same active ingredient.

If Diprolene Ointment has been used for an extended period or on large areas of skin, do not stop suddenly without medical advice. Your healthcare provider may recommend gradually reducing use to help prevent rebound symptoms or adrenal gland effects.

Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have plans to become pregnant. Diprolene Ointment should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Use should be limited to the smallest amount needed for the shortest time possible.

Talk to your doctor if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if topical betamethasone dipropionate passes into breast milk. Caution is advised, and the medication should not be applied to areas where the infant could come into direct contact with treated skin.