Version July 2025
Dosage guidance:
Dosage form information : Dosages expressed as combined amount of betamethasone sodium phosphate and betamethasone acetate; 1 mg is equivalent to betamethasone sodium phosphate 0.5 mg and betamethasone acetate 0.5 mg.
Dosing: Usual dosage range: IM: Initial: 0.25 to 9 mg/day (based on severity of disease and patient response).
Antenatal fetal maturation (off-label use): IM: 12 mg every 24 hours for a total of 2 doses (Ref). A single course of betamethasone is recommended for patients between 24 and 34 weeks' gestation, including those with ruptured membranes or multiple gestations, who are at risk of delivering within 7 days. A single course may be considered in some patients beginning at 22 weeks' gestation or late preterm (between 34 0/7 weeks' and 36 6/7 weeks' gestation). A single repeat course may be considered in some patients with pregnancies less than 34 weeks' gestation at risk for delivery within 7 days and who had a course of antenatal corticosteroids >14 days prior (Ref).
Bursitis (other than of foot): Intra-articular: 3 to 6 mg (0.5 to 1 mL) for one dose; additional injections may be required for acute exacerbations or chronic conditions; generally, injections should be separated by a minimum of 4 to 6 weeks and limited to ≤4 injections per year. If symptoms are not improved after 1 or 2 injections, additional injections are unlikely to provide benefit (Ref); following resolution of acute episodes, reduced doses may be warranted for chronic conditions.
Dermatologic conditions: Intradermal: 1.2 mg/cm2 (0.2 mL/cm2) into lesion for one dose (maximum: 6 mg [1 mL] weekly).
Foot disorders: Intra-articular: 1.5 mg to 6 mg (0.25 to 1 mL) per dose. Dose is based upon condition; additional injections (when required) should generally be separated by a minimum of 4 to 6 weeks and limited to ≤4 injections per year. If symptoms are not improved after 1 or 2 injections, additional injections are unlikely to provide benefit (Ref):
Bursitis: 1.5 mg to 3 mg (0.25 to 0.5 mL).
Tenosynovitis: 3 mg (0.5 mL).
Acute gouty arthritis: 3 mg to 6 mg (0.5 to 1 mL).
Multiple sclerosis: Note: Treatment guidelines recommend the use of high-dose IV or oral methylprednisolone for acute exacerbations of multiple sclerosis (Ref).
IM: 30 mg daily for 1 week, followed by 12 mg every other day for 4 weeks.
Rheumatoid and osteoarthritis: Intra-articular: 3 mg to 12 mg (0.5 to 2 mL) for one dose. Dose is based upon the joint size:
Very large (eg, hip): 6 to 12 mg (1 to 2 mL).
Large (eg, knee, ankle, shoulder): 6 mg (1 mL).
Medium (eg, elbow, wrist): 3 mg to 6 mg (0.5 to 1 mL).
Small (eg, inter- or metacarpophalangeal, sternoclavicular): 1.5 mg to 3 mg (0.25 to 0.5 mL).
Tenosynovitis (other than of foot), peritendinitis: Intra-articular: 1.5 to 6 mg (0.25 to 1 mL) depending on joint size for one dose (Ref); additional injections (when required) should generally be separated by a minimum of 4 to 6 weeks and limited to ≤4 injections per year. If symptoms are not improved after 1 or 2 injections, additional injections are unlikely to provide benefit (Ref).
Dosage adjustment for concomitant therapy: Significant drug interactions exist, requiring dose/frequency adjustment or avoidance. Consult drug interactions database for more information.
There are no dosage adjustments provided in the manufacturer's labeling.
There are no dosage adjustments provided in the manufacturer's labeling.
Refer to adult dosing. Use the lowest effective dose.
(For additional information see "Betamethasone (systemic): Pediatric drug information")
Dosage guidance:
Dosing: Dosages expressed as combined amount of betamethasone sodium phosphate and betamethasone acetate; 1 mg is equivalent to betamethasone sodium phosphate 0.5 mg and betamethasone acetate 0.5 mg. Dosage should be based on severity of disease and patient response; use lowest effective dose for shortest period of time to avoid HPA axis suppression.
Inflammatory and allergic conditions: Infants, Children, and Adolescents: IM: Initial: 0.02 to 0.3 mg/kg/day (0.6 to 9 mg/m2/day) in 3 or 4 divided doses
Infantile hemangioma, severe: Limited data available: Infants and Children: Intralesional: Dosage dependent upon size of lesion: Commonly reported: 6 mg administered as a 6 mg/mL (in combination with triamcinolone injection) divided into multiple injections along the lesion perimeter; reported range: 1.5 to 18 mg/dose; doses usually administered every 8 to 14 weeks; reported range: 6 to 25 weeks (Ref). Dosing based on small trials and case-series, mostly reported in infants and children ≤4 years of age. The largest experience (n=70, age range: 2 months to 12 years) prospectively used a betamethasone/triamcinolone combination injection (1.5 to 18 mg betamethasone acetate) and showed that 89.23% of lesions with an initial volume <20 cc3 regressed by more than 50%, but only 22.2% of lesions with an initial volume >20 cc3 displayed a good or excellent response (Ref). Another trial (n=25, age range: 7 weeks to 2 years) used lower doses of 3 to 12 mg (in combination with triamcinolone); 16 patients experienced a marked response (Ref).
Dosage adjustment for concomitant therapy: Significant drug interactions exist, requiring dose/frequency adjustment or avoidance. Consult drug interactions database for more information.
There are no dosage adjustments provided in the manufacturer's labeling.
There are no dosage adjustments provided in the manufacturer's labeling.
The following adverse drug reactions are derived from product labeling unless otherwise specified.
Frequency not defined:
Cardiovascular: Bradycardia, cardiac arrhythmia, cardiomegaly, circulatory shock, edema, embolism (fat), hypertension, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, myocardial rupture (following recent acute myocardial infarction), syncope, tachycardia, thromboembolism, thrombophlebitis, vasculitis
Dermatologic: Acne vulgaris, allergic dermatitis, atrophic striae, diaphoresis, ecchymoses, erythema of skin, exfoliation of skin, fragile skin, hyperpigmentation, hypertrichosis, hypopigmentation, inadvertent suppression of skin test reaction, skin atrophy, skin rash, subcutaneous atrophy, thinning hair, urticaria, xeroderma
Endocrine & metabolic: Calcinosis, cushingoid appearance (fat accumulation in cheeks and temporal fossae), decreased glucose tolerance, decreased serum potassium, fluid retention, growth suppression (pediatric), hirsutism, hypokalemic alkalosis, impaired glucose tolerance, insulin resistance (increased requirements for insulin or oral hyperglycemic agents), negative nitrogen balance, protein catabolism, sodium retention, weight gain
Gastrointestinal: Abdominal distention, change in bowel habits, hiccups, increased appetite, intestinal perforation, nausea, pancreatitis, peptic ulcer, ulcerative esophagitis
Genitourinary: Bladder dysfunction, glycosuria, spermatozoa disorder (decreased motility and number)
Hematologic & oncologic: Petechia
Hepatic: Hepatomegaly, increased liver enzymes
Hypersensitivity: Anaphylaxis, angioedema, nonimmune anaphylaxis
Infection: Infection (decreased resistance), sterile abscess
Local: Postinjection flare (intra-articular use)
Nervous system: Abnormal sensory symptoms, arachnoiditis, depression, emotional lability, euphoria, headache, increased intracranial pressure, insomnia, intracranial hypertension (idiopathic), malaise, meningitis, myasthenia, neuritis, neuropathy, paraplegia, paresthesia, personality changes, psychic disorder, seizure, spinal cord compression, vertigo
Neuromuscular & skeletal: Amyotrophy, aseptic necrosis of femoral head, aseptic necrosis of humeral head, bone fracture, Charcot arthropathy, lipotrophy, myopathy, osteoporosis, rupture of tendon, steroid myopathy
Ophthalmic: Blindness, blurred vision, cataract, exophthalmos, glaucoma, increased intraocular pressure, papilledema
Respiratory: Pulmonary edema
Miscellaneous: Wound healing impairment
Postmarketing: Endocrine & metabolic: Pheochromocytoma crisis
Hypersensitivity to any component of the formulation; IM administration contraindicated in immune thrombocytopenia (formerly known as idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura).
Canadian labeling: Additional contraindications (not in US labeling): Herpes simplex of the eye; systemic fungal infections; vaccinia; cerebral malaria; use in areas with local infection.
Concerns related to adverse effects:
• Adrenal suppression: May cause hypercortisolism or suppression of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, particularly in younger children or in patients receiving high doses for prolonged periods. HPA axis suppression may lead to adrenal crisis. Withdrawal and discontinuation of a corticosteroid should be done slowly and carefully. Particular care is required when patients are transferred from systemic corticosteroids to inhaled products due to possible adrenal insufficiency or withdrawal from steroids, including an increase in allergic symptoms. Adult patients receiving >20 mg per day of prednisone (or equivalent) may be most susceptible. Fatalities have occurred due to adrenal insufficiency in asthmatic patients during and after transfer from systemic corticosteroids to aerosol steroids; aerosol steroids do not provide the systemic steroid needed to treat patients having trauma, surgery, or infections. In stressful situations, HPA axis-suppressed patients should receive adequate supplementation with natural glucocorticoids (hydrocortisone or cortisone) rather than betamethasone (due to lack of mineralocorticoid activity).
• Anaphylactoid reactions: Rare cases of anaphylactoid reactions have been observed in patients receiving corticosteroids.
• Immunosuppression: Corticosteroids suppress the immune system and increase risk of infection with any pathogen, including bacterial, fungal, helminthic, protozoan, or viral; severe and sometimes fatal corticosteroid-associated infections have occurred. Corticosteroids may reduce resistance to new infections, exacerbate existing infections, increase the risk of disseminated infections, increase the risk of reactivation or exacerbation of latent infections, or mask some signs of infection. Avoid exposure to varicella or measles; if exposure occurs, prophylaxis with an appropriate immunoglobulin may be indicated; antiviral treatment may be considered if varicella infection occurs. Tuberculosis reactivation may occur when treating patients with latent tuberculosis or tuberculin reactivity; administer chemoprophylaxis in patients with latent tuberculosis or tuberculin reactivity during prolonged use of betamethasone. Avoid use in patients with active ocular herpes simplex. Hepatitis B reactivation can occur (infrequently) in patients who are hepatitis B carriers. For patients who show evidence of hepatitis B infection, consult an infectious disease specialist regarding monitoring and treatment options before initiating betamethasone. May exacerbate systemic fungal infections. Amebiasis reactivation may occur. Use with extreme caution in patients with Strongyloides infections; hyperinfection, dissemination, and fatalities have occurred. Avoid use in patients with cerebral malaria.
• Kaposi sarcoma: Prolonged treatment with corticosteroids has been associated with the development of Kaposi sarcoma; clinical improvement may occur with betamethasone discontinuation.
• Myopathy: Acute myopathy has been reported with high-dose corticosteroids, usually in patients with neuromuscular transmission disorders; may involve ocular and/or respiratory muscles; monitor creatine kinase; recovery may be delayed.
• Psychiatric disturbances: Corticosteroid use may cause psychiatric disturbances, including depression, euphoria, insomnia, mood swings, and personality changes. Preexisting psychiatric conditions may be exacerbated by corticosteroid use.
Disease-related issues:
• Cardiovascular disease: Use with caution in patients with HF and/or hypertension; use has been associated with electrolyte disturbances, fluid retention, and hypertension. Dietary modifications may be necessary. Use with caution in patients with a recent history of myocardial infarction (MI); left ventricular free wall rupture has been reported after the use of corticosteroids.
• Diabetes: Use with caution in patients with diabetes mellitus; may alter glucose production/regulation leading to hyperglycemia.
• Gastrointestinal disease: Use with caution in patients with GI diseases (diverticulitis, fresh intestinal anastomoses, peptic ulcer, ulcerative colitis) due to perforation risk. Avoid ethanol may enhance gastric mucosal irritation.
• Head injury: Increased mortality was observed in patients receiving high-dose IV methylprednisolone; high-dose corticosteroids should not be used for the management of head injury.
• Hepatic impairment: Use with caution in patients with hepatic impairment, including cirrhosis; long-term use has been associated with fluid retention.
• Myasthenia gravis: Use may cause transient worsening of myasthenia gravis (MG) (eg, within first 2 weeks of treatment); monitor for worsening MG (AAN [Narayanaswami 2021]).
• Ocular disease: Use with caution in patients with cataracts and/or glaucoma; increased intraocular pressure, open-angle glaucoma, and cataracts have occurred with prolonged use. Not recommended for the treatment of optic neuritis; may increase frequency of new episodes. Consider routine eye exams in chronic users.
• Osteoporosis: Use with caution in patients with osteoporosis; high doses and/or long-term use of corticosteroids have been associated with increased bone loss and osteoporotic fractures.
• Pheochromocytoma: Pheochromocytoma crisis (may be fatal) has been reported after administration of systemic corticosteroids. Consider the risk of pheochromocytoma crisis in patients with suspected or confirmed pheochromocytoma.
• Renal impairment: Use with caution in patients with renal impairment; fluid retention may occur.
• Seizure disorders: Use with caution in patients with a history of seizure disorder; seizures have been reported with adrenal crisis.
• Systemic sclerosis: Use with caution in patients with systemic sclerosis; an increase in scleroderma renal crisis incidence has been observed with corticosteroid use. Monitor BP and renal function in patients with systemic sclerosis treated with corticosteroids (EULAR [Kowal-Bielecka 2017]).
• Thyroid disease: Changes in thyroid status may necessitate dosage adjustments; metabolic clearance of corticosteroids increases in hyperthyroidism and decreases in hypothyroidism.
Special populations:
• Older adult: Because of the risk of adverse effects, systemic corticosteroids should be used cautiously in older adults in the smallest possible effective dose for the shortest duration.
• Pediatric: May affect growth velocity; growth should be routinely monitored in pediatric patients.
Other warnings/precautions:
• Appropriate use: For intramuscular, intra-articular or intralesional use only, do not administer intravenously or epidurally (see Epidural injection).
• Discontinuation of therapy: Withdraw therapy with gradual tapering of dose.
• Epidural injection: Corticosteroids are not approved for epidural injection. Serious neurologic events (eg, spinal cord infarction, paraplegia, quadriplegia, cortical blindness, stroke), some resulting in death, have been reported with epidural injection of corticosteroids, with and without use of fluoroscopy.
• Immunizations: Patients should be brought up to date with all immunizations before initiating therapy. Complete necessary immunizations ≥4 to 6 weeks prior to initiating therapy; live vaccines should not be given concurrently with betamethasone.
• Intra-articular injection: May produce systemic as well as local effects. Appropriate examination of any joint fluid present is necessary to exclude a septic process. Avoid injection into an infected site. Do not inject into unstable joints. Intra-articular injection may result in damage to joint tissues.
Adrenal suppression with failure to thrive has been reported in infants after receiving intralesional corticosteroid injections for treatment of hemangioma (Goyal, 2004). May cause osteoporosis (at any age) or inhibition of bone growth in pediatric patients. Use with caution in patients with osteoporosis. In a population-based study of children, risk of fracture was shown to be increased with >4 courses of corticosteroids; underlying clinical condition may also impact bone health and osteoporotic effect of corticosteroids (Leonard, 2007).
Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling.
Kit, Injection:
Beta 1 Kit: Betamethasone sodium phosphate 3 mg and betamethasone acetate 3 mg per 1 mL [contains benzalkonium chloride, disodium edta]
Suspension, Injection:
Celestone Soluspan: 6 mg/mL consisting of betamethasone sodium phosphate 3 mg and betamethasone acetate 3 mg per 1 mL (5 mL) [contains benzalkonium chloride, edetate (edta) disodium]
Generic: 6 mg/mL consisting of betamethasone sodium phosphate 3 mg and betamethasone acetate 3 mg per 1 mL (5 mL); 7 mg/mL consisting of betamethasone sodium phosphate 4 mg and betamethasone acetate 3 mg per 1 mL (10 mL)
Yes
Suspension (Betamethasone Sod Phos & Acet Injection)
6 (3-3) mg/mL (per mL): $9.60 - $13.21
Suspension (Celestone Soluspan Injection)
6 (3-3) mg/mL (per mL): $10.48
Disclaimer: A representative AWP (Average Wholesale Price) price or price range is provided as reference price only. A range is provided when more than one manufacturer's AWP price is available and uses the low and high price reported by the manufacturers to determine the range. The pricing data should be used for benchmarking purposes only, and as such should not be used alone to set or adjudicate any prices for reimbursement or purchasing functions or considered to be an exact price for a single product and/or manufacturer. Medi-Span expressly disclaims all warranties of any kind or nature, whether express or implied, and assumes no liability with respect to accuracy of price or price range data published in its solutions. In no event shall Medi-Span be liable for special, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages arising from use of price or price range data. Pricing data is updated monthly.
Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling.
Suspension, Injection:
Celestone Soluspan: 6 mg/mL consisting of betamethasone sodium phosphate 3 mg and betamethasone acetate 3 mg per 1 mL (1 mL, 5 mL) [contains benzalkonium chloride, edetate (edta) disodium]
Note: Shake well prior to use.
IM: May be administered intramuscularly.
Intra-articular: Needle size requirements vary based on the size of the joint to be treated (eg, <25 gauge [hip, knee, shoulder], 25 gauge [wrist, ankle, elbow]) and/or method of administration (Ref).
Bursitis: Inject into affected bursa.
Rheumatoid or osteoarthritis: Inject into synovial cavity.
Tendinopathy/tenosynovitis: Inject into affected tendon sheaths (not directly into tendons).
Intradermal: Inject a uniform depot using a 1 mL (eg, tuberculin) syringe with 1/2-inch needle (typically 26 or 27 gauge) (Ref). Do not inject subcutaneously.
Note: May be coadministered with a local anesthetic.
Parenteral: Do not administer IV.
IM: Shake well prior to use; administer deep IM injection.
Intrabursal: Tendinopathy, tenosynovitis: Inject into affected tendon sheaths (not directly into tendons).
Intralesional: Using a 25-gauge tuberculin syringe with 1/2-inch needle inject a uniform depot; for infantile hemangioma, 26- and 27-gauge needles have been used for administration. Should be injected directly into the lesion area. Do not inject subcutaneously.
Intramuscular:
Allergic states: Control of severe or incapacitating allergic conditions intractable to adequate trials of conventional treatment in asthma, atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, drug hypersensitivity reactions, perennial or seasonal allergic rhinitis, serum sickness, transfusion reactions
Dermatologic diseases: Bullous dermatitis herpetiformis, exfoliative erythroderma, mycosis fungoides, pemphigus, severe erythema multiforme (Stevens-Johnson syndrome)
Endocrine disorders: Congenital adrenal hyperplasia, hypercalcemia associated with cancer, nonsuppurative thyroiditis. Note: Hydrocortisone or cortisone is the drug of choice in primary or secondary adrenocortical insufficiency. Synthetic analogs may be used in conjunction with mineralocorticoids where applicable; in infancy mineralocorticoid supplementation is of particular importance
Gastrointestinal diseases: During acute episodes in regional enteritis and ulcerative colitis
Hematologic disorders: Acquired (autoimmune) hemolytic anemia, Diamond-Blackfan anemia, pure red cell aplasia, selected cases of secondary thrombocytopenia
Neoplastic diseases: Palliative management of leukemias and lymphomas
Nervous system: Acute exacerbations of multiple sclerosis; cerebral edema associated with primary or metastatic brain tumor or craniotomy. Note: Treatment guidelines recommend the use of high-dose IV or oral methylprednisolone for acute exacerbations of multiple sclerosis (AAN [Scott 2011]; NICE 2014).
Ophthalmic diseases: Sympathetic ophthalmia, temporal arteritis, uveitis and ocular inflammatory conditions unresponsive to topical corticosteroids
Renal diseases: To induce diuresis or remission of proteinuria in idiopathic nephrotic syndrome or that due to lupus erythematosus
Respiratory diseases: Berylliosis, fulminating or disseminated pulmonary tuberculosis when used concurrently with appropriate antituberculous chemotherapy, idiopathic eosinophilic pneumonias, symptomatic sarcoidosis
Rheumatic disorders: Adjunctive therapy for short-term administration in acute gout flares; acute rheumatic carditis; ankylosing spondylitis; psoriatic arthritis; rheumatoid arthritis, including juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (selected cases may require low-dose maintenance therapy); treatment of dermatomyositis, polymyositis, and systemic lupus erythematosus.
Miscellaneous: Trichinosis with neurologic or myocardial involvement, tuberculous meningitis with subarachnoid block or impending block when used with appropriate antituberculous chemotherapy
Intra-articular or soft tissue administration:
Adjunctive therapy for short-term administration in acute gout flares, acute and subacute bursitis, acute nonspecific tenosynovitis, epicondylitis, rheumatoid arthritis, synovitis of osteoarthritis
Intralesional:
Treatment of alopecia areata; discoid lupus erythematosus; keloids; localized hypertrophic, infiltrated, inflammatory lesions of granuloma annulare, lichen planus, lichen simplex chronicus (neurodermatitis), and psoriatic plaques; necrobiosis lipoidica diabeticorum
Accelerate fetal lung maturation
Substrate of CYP3A4 (Minor); Note: Assignment of Major/Minor substrate status based on clinically relevant drug interaction potential;
Note: Interacting drugs may not be individually listed below if they are part of a group interaction (eg, individual drugs within “CYP3A4 Inducers [Strong]” are NOT listed). For a complete list of drug interactions by individual drug name and detailed management recommendations, use the drug interactions program by clicking on the “Launch drug interactions program” link above.
Abrocitinib: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase immunosuppressive effects of Abrocitinib. Management: The use of abrocitinib in combination with other immunosuppressants is not recommended. Doses equivalent to more than 2 mg/kg or 20 mg/day of prednisone (for persons over 10 kg) administered for 2 or more weeks are considered immunosuppressive. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase adverse/toxic effects of Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors. Increased muscular weakness may occur. Risk C: Monitor
Aldesleukin: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of Aldesleukin. Risk X: Avoid
Amphotericin B: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase hypokalemic effects of Amphotericin B. Risk C: Monitor
Androgens: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase fluid-retaining effects of Androgens. Risk C: Monitor
Antidiabetic Agents: Hyperglycemia-Associated Agents may decrease therapeutic effects of Antidiabetic Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Antithymocyte Globulin (Equine): Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase adverse/toxic effects of Antithymocyte Globulin (Equine). Specifically, these effects may be unmasked if the dose of systemic corticosteroid is reduced. Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase immunosuppressive effects of Antithymocyte Globulin (Equine). Specifically, infections may occur with greater severity and/or atypical presentations. Risk C: Monitor
Baricitinib: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase immunosuppressive effects of Baricitinib. Management: The use of baricitinib in combination with potent immunosuppressants is not recommended. Doses equivalent to more than 2 mg/kg or 20 mg/day of prednisone (for persons over 10 kg) administered for 2 or more weeks are considered immunosuppressive. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
BCG Products: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of BCG Products. Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase adverse/toxic effects of BCG Products. Specifically, the risk of vaccine-associated infection may be increased. Risk X: Avoid
Brincidofovir: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of Brincidofovir. Risk C: Monitor
Brivudine: May increase adverse/toxic effects of Corticosteroids (Systemic). Risk X: Avoid
Calcitriol (Systemic): Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of Calcitriol (Systemic). Risk C: Monitor
CAR-T Cell Immunotherapy: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of CAR-T Cell Immunotherapy. Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase adverse/toxic effects of CAR-T Cell Immunotherapy. Specifically, the severity and duration of neurologic toxicities may be increased. Management: Avoid use of corticosteroids as premedication before treatment with CAR-T cell immunotherapy agents. Corticosteroids are indicated and may be required for treatment of toxicities such as cytokine release syndrome or neurologic toxicity. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Cardiac Glycosides: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase adverse/toxic effects of Cardiac Glycosides. Risk C: Monitor
Chikungunya Vaccine (Live): Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase adverse/toxic effects of Chikungunya Vaccine (Live). Specifically, the risk of vaccine-associated infection may be increased. Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of Chikungunya Vaccine (Live). Risk X: Avoid
Cladribine: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase immunosuppressive effects of Cladribine. Risk X: Avoid
Coccidioides immitis Skin Test: Coadministration of Corticosteroids (Systemic) and Coccidioides immitis Skin Test may alter diagnostic results. Management: Consider discontinuing systemic corticosteroids (dosed at 2 mg/kg or 20 mg/day of prednisone (for persons over 10 kg) administered for 2 or more weeks) several weeks prior to coccidioides immitis skin antigen testing. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Corticorelin: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of Corticorelin. Specifically, the plasma ACTH response to corticorelin may be blunted by recent or current corticosteroid therapy. Risk C: Monitor
Cosyntropin: Coadministration of Corticosteroids (Systemic) and Cosyntropin may alter diagnostic results. Risk C: Monitor
COVID-19 Vaccine (Inactivated Virus): Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of COVID-19 Vaccine (Inactivated Virus). Risk C: Monitor
COVID-19 Vaccine (mRNA): Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of COVID-19 Vaccine (mRNA). Management: Give a 3-dose primary series for all patients aged 6 months and older taking immunosuppressive medications or therapies. Booster doses are recommended for certain age groups. See CDC guidance for details. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
COVID-19 Vaccine (Subunit): Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of COVID-19 Vaccine (Subunit). Risk C: Monitor
CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong): May decrease serum concentration of Betamethasone (Systemic). Risk C: Monitor
CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong): May increase serum concentration of Betamethasone (Systemic). Risk C: Monitor
Deferasirox: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase adverse/toxic effects of Deferasirox. Specifically, the risk for GI ulceration/irritation or GI bleeding may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Dengue Tetravalent Vaccine (Live): Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of Dengue Tetravalent Vaccine (Live). Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase adverse/toxic effects of Dengue Tetravalent Vaccine (Live). Specifically, the risk of vaccine associated infection may be increased. Risk X: Avoid
Denosumab: May increase immunosuppressive effects of Corticosteroids (Systemic). Management: Consider the risk of serious infections versus the potential benefits of coadministration of denosumab and systemic corticosteroids. If combined, monitor patients for signs/symptoms of serious infections. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Desirudin: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase anticoagulant effects of Desirudin. More specifically, corticosteroids may increase hemorrhagic risk during desirudin treatment. Management: Discontinue treatment with systemic corticosteroids prior to desirudin initiation. If concomitant use cannot be avoided, monitor patients receiving these combinations closely for clinical and laboratory evidence of excessive anticoagulation. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Desmopressin: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase hyponatremic effects of Desmopressin. Risk X: Avoid
Deucravacitinib: May increase immunosuppressive effects of Corticosteroids (Systemic). Management: The use of deucravacitinib in combination with potent immunosuppressants is not recommended. Doses equivalent to more than 2 mg/kg or 20 mg/day of prednisone (for persons over 10 kg) administered for 2 or more weeks are considered immunosuppressive. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Dinutuximab Beta: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase immunosuppressive effects of Dinutuximab Beta. Management: Corticosteroids are not recommended for 2 weeks prior to dinutuximab beta, during therapy and for 1 week after treatment. Doses equivalent to over 2 mg/kg or 20 mg/day of prednisone (persons over 10 kg) for 2 or more weeks are considered immunosuppressive Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Estrogen Derivatives: May increase serum concentration of Corticosteroids (Systemic). Risk C: Monitor
Etrasimod: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase immunosuppressive effects of Etrasimod. Risk C: Monitor
Filgotinib: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase immunosuppressive effects of Filgotinib. Management: Coadministration of filgotinib with systemic corticosteroids at doses equivalent to greater than 2 mg/kg or 20 mg/day of prednisone (for persons over 10 kg) administered for 2 or more weeks is not recommended. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Gallium Ga 68 Dotatate: Coadministration of Corticosteroids (Systemic) and Gallium Ga 68 Dotatate may alter diagnostic results. Risk C: Monitor
Growth Hormone Analogs: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of Growth Hormone Analogs. Growth Hormone Analogs may decrease active metabolite exposure of Corticosteroids (Systemic). Risk C: Monitor
Hyaluronidase: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of Hyaluronidase. Management: Patients receiving corticosteroids (particularly at larger doses) may not experience the desired clinical response to standard doses of hyaluronidase. Larger doses of hyaluronidase may be required. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors (Anti-PD-1, -PD-L1, and -CTLA4 Therapies): Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors (Anti-PD-1, -PD-L1, and -CTLA4 Therapies). Management: Carefully consider the need for corticosteroids, at doses of a prednisone-equivalent of 10 mg or more per day, during the initiation of immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy. Use of corticosteroids to treat immune related adverse events is still recommended Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Indium 111 Capromab Pendetide: Coadministration of Corticosteroids (Systemic) and Indium 111 Capromab Pendetide may alter diagnostic results. Risk X: Avoid
Inebilizumab: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase immunosuppressive effects of Inebilizumab. Risk C: Monitor
Influenza Virus Vaccines: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of Influenza Virus Vaccines. Management: Administer influenza vaccines at least 2 weeks prior to initiation of systemic corticosteroids at immunosuppressive doses. Influenza vaccines administered less than 14 days prior to or during such therapy should be repeated 3 months after therapy. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Isoniazid: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease serum concentration of Isoniazid. Risk C: Monitor
Leflunomide: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase immunosuppressive effects of Leflunomide. Management: Increase the frequency of chronic monitoring of platelet, white blood cell count, and hemoglobin or hematocrit to monthly, instead of every 6 to 8 weeks, if leflunomide is coadministered with immunosuppressive agents, such as systemic corticosteroids. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Licorice: May increase serum concentration of Corticosteroids (Systemic). Risk C: Monitor
Loop Diuretics: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase hypokalemic effects of Loop Diuretics. Risk C: Monitor
Lutetium Lu 177 Dotatate: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of Lutetium Lu 177 Dotatate. Management: Avoid repeated use of high-doses of corticosteroids during treatment with lutetium Lu 177 dotatate. Use of corticosteroids is still permitted for the treatment of neuroendocrine hormonal crisis. The effects of lower corticosteroid doses is unknown. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Macimorelin: Coadministration of Corticosteroids (Systemic) and Macimorelin may alter diagnostic results. Risk X: Avoid
MetyraPONE: Coadministration of Corticosteroids (Systemic) and MetyraPONE may alter diagnostic results. Management: Consider alternatives to the use of the metyrapone test in patients taking systemic corticosteroids. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Mifamurtide: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of Mifamurtide. Risk X: Avoid
MiFEPRIStone: May decrease therapeutic effects of Corticosteroids (Systemic). MiFEPRIStone may increase serum concentration of Corticosteroids (Systemic). Management: Avoid mifepristone in patients who require long-term corticosteroid treatment of serious illnesses or conditions (eg, for immunosuppression following transplantation). Corticosteroid effects may be reduced by mifepristone treatment. Risk X: Avoid
Mumps- Rubella- or Varicella-Containing Live Vaccines: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of Mumps- Rubella- or Varicella-Containing Live Vaccines. Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase adverse/toxic effects of Mumps- Rubella- or Varicella-Containing Live Vaccines. Specifically, the risk of vaccine-associated infection may be increased. Risk X: Avoid
Nadofaragene Firadenovec: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase adverse/toxic effects of Nadofaragene Firadenovec. Specifically, the risk of disseminated adenovirus infection may be increased. Risk X: Avoid
Natalizumab: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase immunosuppressive effects of Natalizumab. Risk X: Avoid
Neuromuscular-Blocking Agents (Nondepolarizing): May increase adverse neuromuscular effects of Corticosteroids (Systemic). Increased muscle weakness, possibly progressing to polyneuropathies and myopathies, may occur. Management: If concomitant therapy is required, use the lowest dose for the shortest duration to limit the risk of myopathy or neuropathy. Monitor for new onset or worsening muscle weakness, reduction or loss of deep tendon reflexes, and peripheral sensory decriments Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Nicorandil: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase adverse/toxic effects of Nicorandil. Gastrointestinal perforation has been reported in association with this combination. Risk C: Monitor
Nirmatrelvir and Ritonavir: May increase serum concentration of Betamethasone (Systemic). Risk C: Monitor
Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Agents (COX-2 Selective): Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase adverse/toxic effects of Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Agents (COX-2 Selective). Risk C: Monitor
Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Agents (Nonselective): Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase adverse/toxic effects of Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Agents (Nonselective). Risk C: Monitor
Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Agents (Topical): May increase adverse/toxic effects of Corticosteroids (Systemic). Specifically, the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding, ulceration, and perforation may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Ocrelizumab: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase immunosuppressive effects of Ocrelizumab. Risk C: Monitor
Ofatumumab: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase immunosuppressive effects of Ofatumumab. Risk C: Monitor
Ozanimod: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase immunosuppressive effects of Ozanimod. Risk C: Monitor
Pidotimod: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of Pidotimod. Risk C: Monitor
Pimecrolimus: May increase immunosuppressive effects of Corticosteroids (Systemic). Risk X: Avoid
Pneumococcal Vaccines: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of Pneumococcal Vaccines. Risk C: Monitor
Poliovirus Vaccine (Live/Trivalent/Oral): Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of Poliovirus Vaccine (Live/Trivalent/Oral). Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase adverse/toxic effects of Poliovirus Vaccine (Live/Trivalent/Oral). Specifically, the risk of vaccine-associated infection may be increased. Risk X: Avoid
Polymethylmethacrylate: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase adverse/toxic effects of Polymethylmethacrylate. Specifically, the risk for hypersensitivity or implant clearance may be increased. Management: Use caution when considering use of bovine collagen-containing implants such as the polymethylmethacrylate-based Bellafill brand implant in patients who are receiving immunosuppressants. Consider use of additional skin tests prior to administration. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Quinolones: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase adverse/toxic effects of Quinolones. Specifically, the risk of tendonitis and tendon rupture may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Rabies Vaccine: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of Rabies Vaccine. Management: Complete rabies vaccination at least 2 weeks before initiation of immunosuppressant therapy if possible. If combined, check for rabies antibody titers, and if vaccination is for post exposure prophylaxis, administer a 5th dose of the vaccine. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Ritlecitinib: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase immunosuppressive effects of Ritlecitinib. Risk X: Avoid
Ritodrine: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase adverse/toxic effects of Ritodrine. Risk C: Monitor
Ruxolitinib (Topical): Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase immunosuppressive effects of Ruxolitinib (Topical). Risk X: Avoid
Salicylates: May increase adverse/toxic effects of Corticosteroids (Systemic). These specifically include gastrointestinal ulceration and bleeding. Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease serum concentration of Salicylates. Withdrawal of corticosteroids may result in salicylate toxicity. Risk C: Monitor
Sargramostim: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase therapeutic effects of Sargramostim. Specifically, corticosteroids may enhance the myeloproliferative effects of sargramostim. Risk C: Monitor
Sipuleucel-T: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of Sipuleucel-T. Management: Consider reducing the dose or discontinuing immunosuppressants, such as systemic corticosteroids, prior to initiating sipuleucel-T therapy. Doses equivalent to more than 2 mg/kg or 20 mg/day of prednisone given for 2 or more weeks are immunosuppressive. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Sitafloxacin: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase adverse/toxic effects of Sitafloxacin. Specifically, the risk of tendonitis and tendon rupture may be increased. Management: Consider alternatives to coadministration of corticosteroids and sitafloxacin unless the benefits of coadministration outweigh the risk of tendon disorders. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Sodium Benzoate: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of Sodium Benzoate. Risk C: Monitor
Sphingosine 1-Phosphate (S1P) Receptor Modulators: May increase immunosuppressive effects of Corticosteroids (Systemic). Risk C: Monitor
Succinylcholine: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase neuromuscular-blocking effects of Succinylcholine. Risk C: Monitor
Tacrolimus (Systemic): Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease serum concentration of Tacrolimus (Systemic). Conversely, when discontinuing corticosteroid therapy, tacrolimus concentrations may increase. Risk C: Monitor
Tacrolimus (Topical): Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase immunosuppressive effects of Tacrolimus (Topical). Risk X: Avoid
Talimogene Laherparepvec: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase adverse/toxic effects of Talimogene Laherparepvec. Specifically, the risk of infection from the live, attenuated herpes simplex virus contained in talimogene laherparepvec may be increased. Risk X: Avoid
Tertomotide: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of Tertomotide. Risk X: Avoid
Thiazide and Thiazide-Like Diuretics: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase hypokalemic effects of Thiazide and Thiazide-Like Diuretics. Risk C: Monitor
Tofacitinib: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase immunosuppressive effects of Tofacitinib. Management: Coadministration of tofacitinib with potent immunosuppressants is not recommended. Doses equivalent to more than 2 mg/kg or 20 mg/day of prednisone (for persons over 10 kg) administered for 2 or more weeks are considered immunosuppressive. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Typhoid Vaccine: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of Typhoid Vaccine. Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase adverse/toxic effects of Typhoid Vaccine. Specifically, the risk of vaccine-associated infection may be increased. Risk X: Avoid
Ublituximab: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase immunosuppressive effects of Ublituximab. Risk C: Monitor
Upadacitinib: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase immunosuppressive effects of Upadacitinib. Management: Coadministration of upadacitinib with systemic corticosteroids at doses equivalent to greater than 2 mg/kg or 20 mg/day of prednisone (for persons over 10 kg) administered for 2 or more weeks is not recommended. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Urea Cycle Disorder Agents: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of Urea Cycle Disorder Agents. More specifically, Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase protein catabolism and plasma ammonia concentrations, thereby increasing the doses of Urea Cycle Disorder Agents needed to maintain these concentrations in the target range. Risk C: Monitor
Vaccines (Live): Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase adverse/toxic effects of Vaccines (Live). Specifically, the risk of vaccine-associated infection may be increased. Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of Vaccines (Live). Management: Avoid live vaccines during and for 1 month after therapy with immunosuppressive doses of corticosteroids (equivalent to prednisone > 2 mg/kg or 20 mg/day in persons over 10 kg for at least 2 weeks). Give live vaccines 4 weeks prior to therapy if possible. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Vaccines (Non-Live/Inactivated/Non-Replicating): Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of Vaccines (Non-Live/Inactivated/Non-Replicating). Management: Administer vaccines at least 2 weeks prior to immunosuppressive corticosteroids if possible. If patients are vaccinated less than 14 days prior to or during such therapy, repeat vaccination at least 3 months after therapy if immunocompetence restored. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Vitamin K Antagonists: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase anticoagulant effects of Vitamin K Antagonists. Risk C: Monitor
Yellow Fever Vaccine: Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase adverse/toxic effects of Yellow Fever Vaccine. Specifically, the risk of vaccine-associated infection may be increased. Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of Yellow Fever Vaccine. Risk X: Avoid
Zoster Vaccine (Live/Attenuated): Corticosteroids (Systemic) may increase adverse/toxic effects of Zoster Vaccine (Live/Attenuated). Specifically, the risk of vaccine-associated infection may be increased. Corticosteroids (Systemic) may decrease therapeutic effects of Zoster Vaccine (Live/Attenuated). Risk X: Avoid
Betamethasone crosses the placenta (Williams 2022) and is partially metabolized by placental enzymes to an inactive metabolite (Murphy 2007).
Some studies have shown an association between first trimester systemic corticosteroid use and oral clefts or decreased birth weight; however, information is conflicting and may be influenced by maternal dose/indication for use (Lunghi 2010; Park-Wyllie 2000; Pradat 2003). Hypoadrenalism may occur in newborns following maternal use of corticosteroids during pregnancy; monitor.
Betamethasone is classified as a fluorinated corticosteroid. When systemic corticosteroids are needed in pregnancy for rheumatic disorders, nonfluorinated corticosteroids (eg, prednisone) are preferred. Chronic high doses should be avoided (ACR [Sammaritano 2020]).
Antenatal corticosteroid administration promotes fetal lung maturity and is associated with the reduction of intraventricular hemorrhage, necrotizing enterocolitis, neonatal mortality, and respiratory distress syndrome. A single course of betamethasone is recommended for patients between 24 0/7 and 33 6/7 weeks' gestation who are at risk of delivering within 7 days. This recommendation includes those with ruptured membranes or multiple gestations. A single course of betamethasone may be considered for patients beginning at 22 0/7 weeks' gestation who are at risk of delivering within 7 days, in consultation with the family regarding resuscitation. In addition, a single course of betamethasone may be given to patients between 34 0/7 weeks and 36 6/7 weeks who are at risk of preterm delivery within 7 days and who have not previously received corticosteroids if induction or delivery will proceed ≥24 hours and ≤7 days; delivery should not be delayed for administration of antenatal corticosteroids. Use of concomitant tocolytics is not currently recommended and administration of late preterm corticosteroids has not been evaluated in patients with intrauterine infection, multiple gestations, pregestational diabetes, or patients who delivered previously by cesarean section at term. Multiple repeat courses are not recommended. However, in patients with pregnancies less than 34 weeks' gestation at risk for delivery within 7 days and who had a course of antenatal corticosteroids >14 days prior, a single repeat course may be considered; use of a repeat course in patients with preterm prelabor rupture of membranes is controversial (ACOG 2016; ACOG 2017; ACOG 2020; ACOG 2021).
Corticosteroids are present in breast milk.
The onset of milk secretion after birth may be delayed and the volume of milk produced may be decreased by antenatal betamethasone therapy; this affect was seen when delivery occurred 3 to 9 days after the betamethasone dose in patients between 28 and 34 weeks' gestation. Antenatal betamethasone therapy did not affect milk production when birth occurred <3 days or >10 days of treatment (Henderson 2008).
The manufacturer notes that when used systemically, maternal use of corticosteroids have the potential to cause adverse events in a breastfed infant (eg, growth suppression, interfere with endogenous corticosteroid production) and therefore, recommends that caution be exercised when administering betamethasone to breastfeeding patients. Corticosteroids are generally considered compatible with breastfeeding when used in usual doses; however, monitoring of the breastfeeding infant for adverse reactions is recommended (WHO 2002). Betamethasone is classified as a fluorinated corticosteroid. When systemic corticosteroids are needed in a lactating patient for rheumatic disorders, low doses of nonfluorinated corticosteroids (eg, prednisone) are preferred (ACR [Sammaritano 2020]).
Growth in children; injection site reactions; screen for hepatitis B prior to initiation; latent or active amebiasis prior to initiation in patients who have spent time in tropical climates or have unexplained diarrhea; reactivation of tuberculosis in patients with latent tuberculosis or tuberculin reactivity; signs and symptoms of infection.
Controls the rate of protein synthesis; depresses the migration of polymorphonuclear leukocytes, fibroblasts; reverses capillary permeability and lysosomal stabilization at the cellular level to prevent or control inflammation
Protein binding: 64% (Peterson 1983)
Metabolism: Hepatic (Peterson 1983)
Half-life elimination: 6.5 hours (Peterson 1983)
Time to peak, serum: IV: 10 to 36 minutes (Peterson 1983)
Excretion: Urine (<5% as unchanged drug) (Peterson 1983)
