Betamethasone Sodium Phosphate & Betamethasone Acetate

Potent fluorinated glucocorticoid for systemic or local anti-inflammatory therapy; intra-articular injection for equine joint inflammation; topical dermatologic and ophthalmic conditions. Fluorinated corticosteroid. Mechanism: glucocorticoid receptor agonist → transcriptional regulation → inhibition of phospholipase A2 (annexin-1 mediated) → reduced prostaglandin and leukotriene synthesis. Potent anti-inflammatory; negligible mineralocorticoid activity due to C-16 fluorine substitution. Available as short-acting sodium phosphate and long-acting acetate ester combinations. Key information Corticosteroid — immunosuppressive doses increase infection risk. Long-acting depot formulation — single injection. Not for repeated use. May induce parturition in late-term mares. Withdrawal from competition per regulatory requirements.

Injectable: IM (depot formulation) or intra-articular (aseptic technique). Topical: apply thin layer to affected area; wear gloves. Store at room temperature; protect from light. If a dose is missed This medication is administered by a veterinarian or veterinary staff in a clinical setting. Missed doses are managed by your veterinary team — contact your veterinarian to reschedule.

HPA axis suppression. PU/PD/PP. Muscle wasting, poor coat quality, immunosuppression, delayed wound healing. GI ulceration. Laminitis risk in horses. Behavioral changes (euphoria, restlessness). Iatrogenic Cushing's syndrome with repeated dosing. Intra-articular: joint cartilage damage, crystal-induced synovitis (post-injection flare).

For animals Monitor for GI ulceration; use with caution in animals with GI disease. Laminitis risk in horses — avoid in at-risk patients (EMS, PPID, obesity). Avoid in pregnant animals. Intra-articular: aseptic technique essential; limit frequency to prevent cartilage damage (max 3–4 injections per site per year). Do not use concurrently with other NSAIDs or corticosteroids. Immunosuppression — do not vaccinate during therapy. For people handling this medication Wear gloves when handling. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Corticosteroid — avoid prolonged skin contact. Keep out of reach of children. Pregnant women and women of childbearing age should avoid contact. Gloves recommended for handling. Injection by veterinarian only.

Contact your veterinarian. Corticosteroid overdose causes immunosuppression and metabolic disturbances. Long-acting depot — effects may persist for weeks.