Betamethasone Dipropionate

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Harshi Dhingra, M.D.

Last Reviewed: Jan 12, 2023

Common Questions


Common Questions about Betamethasone Dipropionate


Why is betamethasone prescription only?

Betamethasone dipropionate and betamethasone valerate are available by prescription only because they are potent corticosteroids. A doctor can make a proper diagnosis and decide if a strong topical cream like betamethasone is required to treat your skin condition.



Is betamethasone stronger than hydrocortisone?

Betamethasone is up to 600 times stronger than hydrocortisone. Topical corticosteroids like betamethasone are used to treat inflammatory skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis when over-the-counter steroid creams or other prescription steroids do not effectively relieve symptoms.



How long can you use betamethasone for?

You can use most formulations of betamethasone dipropionate for up to 2 weeks. The spray (brand name Sernivo) can be used for up to 4 weeks. 



Can I use betamethasone 3 times a day?

Betamethasone dipropionate is usually applied twice a day to the affected area. Do not use this topical cream 3 times a day or more often without your doctor’s approval. 



How long does it take for betamethasone to work?

Most people note an improvement in their symptoms within 3-4 days of starting betamethasone use. Contact your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 2 weeks of using betamethasone.



What happens if you put betamethasone on your face?

You should not put betamethasone on your face or other sensitive areas like the groin and armpits unless your doctor advises you to do so. Strong topical corticosteroids like betamethasone can cause thinning of the skin, striae (streaks and stretch marks), and telangiectasias (broken capillaries) in these areas.



What is the price of betamethasone without insurance?

Without insurance, betamethasone can be as high as $154.00, but with a free BuzzRx prescription discount coupon, you could pay as low as $36.41 for the most common version of this medication. Use the BuzzRx drug price look-up tool to find the lowest discounted price, and be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity for the most accurate pricing. While generics tend to have the best savings, you can also use your BuzzRx card and coupons to purchase brand-name versions. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescription drugs—whether you have insurance or not.



What is the price of betamethasone with insurance?

Ask your pharmacist or insurance provider for your copay price on betamethasone—copay amounts vary depending on the type of insurance plan you have and if there is a deductible to reach before prescription drug coverage begins.

You could save up to 80% on your prescription medication with a free BuzzRx discount coupon for betamethasone. When using the BuzzRx lookup tool to find the price of your medicine, be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity to receive the most accurate discounted pricing. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescriptions—whether you have insurance or not.