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From: www.tiscali.co.uk/lifestyle/
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Health and Nutrition > Medicines > B

Betnovate rectal ointment (discontinued in the UK - September 2002)




How does it work?

This preparation contains a combination of ingredients that are useful in relieving the symptoms of anal conditions such as haemorrhoids. Betamethasone valerate belongs to a group of medicines known as the corticosteroids. Irritation of the skin or membranes causes the release of substances that widen blood vessels, causing the area to become red, swollen and painful. As the medicine is absorbed it inhibits the action of these substances allowing the blood vessels to return to their normal size, therefore reducing discomfort. Lignocaine hydrochloride is a local anaesthetic, which works by blocking the pathway of pain along nerve fibres. This also helps to relieve the discomfort and pain associated with these conditions. Phenylephrine hydrochloride binds to alpha-receptors which are present on the muscle surrounding the blood vessels. When the receptors are stimulated by phenylephrine, the muscle contracts and the blood vessel narrows. This causes swollen blood vessels to shrink, which also helps to relieve the associated pain and discomfort. This preparation is used to relieve the symptoms of itching, irritation, discomfort or pain associated with anal conditions such as external haemorrhoids.

What is it used for?

  • Piles
  • Symptoms associated with anal conditions
  • Warning!

  • This medicine should not be used for longer than seven days at a time. If symptoms persist after this period consult your doctor.
  • Use with caution in

  • No known conditions
  • Not to be used in

  • Bacterial skin infections
  • Fungal infections of the skin
  • Skin disorders in children under one year old
  • Viral skin infections such as chickenpox or herpes simplex
  • This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

    Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

    Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

  • This medicine should not be used during pregnancy as it may be harmful to the unborn baby. Seek medical advice from your doctor.
  • There is no information available regarding the safety of this medicine during breastfeeding. Seek medical advice from your doctor.
  • Side effects

    Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Because a side effect is stated here, it does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.

  • Changes in skin pigmentation
  • Excessive hair growth (hypertrichosis)
  • Skin thinning
  • The side effects listed above may not include all of the side effects reported by the drug's manufacturer. For more information about any other possible risks associated with this medicine, please read the information provided with the medicine or consult your doctor or pharmacist.



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