Many people are susceptible to the rashes of poison
ivy, oak,
and sumac.
The sap oil, called urushiol, causes the skin rash.
Poison ivy is not contagious.
Washing the oily sap from the skin with water and soap
immediately can help prevent the rash.
Avoiding direct contact with the plants can prevent the
rash.
What causes the rash? How do I identify poison ivy,
oak, and sumac?
Poison ivy is a common cause of contact dermatitis, an allergic reaction to something that comes in direct contact with the skin. Allergic contact dermatitis as a response to plants is sometimes referred to as allergic phytodermatitis. This condition can be quite unpleasant but does not typically pose serious health risks. Prevention of the condition is best.
Betamethasone is a topical steroid. It reduces the actions of chemicals in the body that cause inflammation, redness, and swelling.
Betamethasone topical is used to treat the inflammation caused by a number of conditions such as allergic reactions, eczema, and psoriasis. The dental paste form of betamethasone is used to treat mouth ulcers.
Betamethasone topical may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What are the possible side effects of betamethasone topical?
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Stop using this medication and call your doctor at once if you have any of these signs that you may be absorbing betamethasone topical through your skin or gums:
blurred vision, or seeing halos around lights;
uneven heartbeats;
mood changes;
sleep problems (insomnia);
weight gain, puffiness in your face; or
feeling tired.
Less serious side effects may include:
skin redness, burning, itching, or peeling;
thinning of your skin; or
blistering skin; or
stretch marks.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
What is the most important information I should know about betamethasone topical?
Use this medication exactly as directed on the label, or as it has been prescribed by your doctor. Do not use the medication in larger amounts or for longer than recommended.
Do not cover treated skin areas with a bandage or other covering unless your doctor has told you to. If you are treating the diaper area of a baby, do not use plastic pants or tight-fitting diapers. Covering the skin that is treated with betamethasone topical can increase the amount of the drug your skin absorbs, which may lead to unwanted side effects. Follow your doctor's instructions.
Avoid using this medication on your face, near your eyes, or on body areas where you have skin folds or thin skin.
Do not use this medication on a child without a doctor's advice. Children are more sensitive to the effects of betamethasone topical.
Betamethasone topical will not treat a bacterial, fungal, or viral skin infection.
Contact your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it gets worse after using this medication for several days.