Betacap 0.1% Solution

What is Betacap Scalp Application?

Betacap Scalp Application is a solution used to reduce inflammation on the scalp that is caused by the likes of eczema or dermatitis. It contains a topical corticosteroid to soothe inflammation and help the scalp to return to normal.

It is suitable to be used by adults, the elderly and children who are over one year of age.

You can only buy Betacap Scalp Application on prescription.

What is Betacap Scalp solution used to treat?

Betacap is for use on the scalp to treat skin conditions such as psoriasis, dermatitis and eczema.

Why is Betacap Scalp Application recommended for scalp conditions?

Betacap contains the active ingredient betamethasone valerate, which is a topical corticosteroid. This corticosteroid is very strong and fast-acting; the scalp needs this kind of medicine as it does not generally respond well to weaker forms of medication.

Betacap Scalp Application is considered to be a very safe product to use, with minimal side effects when used correctly. It is also not known to interact with any other medicines, although you should still inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are currently taking another medication at the same time.

How does Betacap work?

Betacap works by reducing the inflammation that comes with the conditions mentioned above and also works to calm down your immune system. Furthermore, it is an antiseptic and contains a moisturiser to hydrate the scalp and make it feel more comfortable.

The product contains the active ingredient betamethasone valerate, which is a corticosteroid medicine. Medicines classed as corticosteroids possess anti-inflammatory properties, which help to relieve inflammation.

By applying Betacap to the scalp, it is absorbed by the skin, where it will get to work inside the cells. It inhibits inflammation-causing chemicals from being released, which helps to alleviate swelling, redness and itching caused by problems like eczema and psoriasis.

Who can use Betacap Scalp Application?

This product is not suitable for everyone.

Do not use Betacap Scalp Application:

• If you are allergic to betamethasone valerate or any of the other ingredients contained in this product (please see the Ingredients tab for full details)
• On children who are under one year of age
• As a treatment for any other kind of skin problems, particularly skin infections as this may make them worse
• As a treatment for any scalp problem other than the one your doctor prescribed it for
• In the long-term (weeks or months) to treat any scalp condition

Betacap Scalp Application is yet to be proven to be completely safe for use during pregnancy. Do not use this product while pregnant or breastfeeding unless your doctor has told you to.

Do not use Betacap for more than 7 days to treat seborrhoeic dermatitis in children.

This list is not exhaustive. Always read the patient information leaflet for full details on precautions.

Can you buy Betacap Scalp Application over the counter?

No, Betacap is not available to buy over the counter. You must be prescribed this medicine by a doctor.

Can you buy Betacap Scalp Application online in the UK?

Yes, you can buy Betacap Scalp Application online. This medicine is only available on prescription, but you can order it from Medicine Direct after filling out our confidential online questionnaire. This will be assessed by a prescriber, who will determine whether or not this is a suitable treatment for your condition.

If your order is placed by 2pm, next day delivery is available.

Medicine Direct is regulated by the General Pharmaceutical Council and the MHRA; this means we can guarantee approved and genuine medication. Never order any type of medication online from anywhere other than regulated UK pharmacies, like Medicine Direct.

Betacap alternatives

A wide range of corticosteroid medicines are available to treat the likes of eczema.

An alternative treatment for scalp conditions also available from Medicine Direct is Betnovate Scalp Application. Also containing betamethasone valerate, this product is used in the short-term to treat conditions like eczema and psoriasis of the scalp.

Elocon scalp lotion is another available alternative that is used to treat dry, itchy and inflamed scalp.

Betacap Dosage and Directions

Our pharmacists and prescribers follow NICE guidelines when prescribing Betacap scalp solution. 

How do I use Betacap?

Always use Betacap Scalp Application exactly as instructed by your doctor or pharmacist.

Read the patient information leaflet thoroughly for full usage instructions. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist if you are still unsure of how to use it.

Before you use this treatment for the first time, turn the bottle cap anti-clockwise to break its seal.

Application directions:

• Carefully turn the bottle upside down over your head, holding the nozzle over the affected area of the scalp.
• Gently squeeze the bottle to release the solution until the affected area is coated with a thin layer of the treatment.
• Gently massage the application into your scalp, stopping it from running off.
• Once you have done this, allow the area to dry naturally, without using a towel or hair dryer. This leaves the active ingredient on your scalp.
• When the liquid has dried, your scalp will feel cool.
• Wash your hands after every application.

Repeat this process twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening, until you notice that your condition has improved.

On the days you shampoo your hair, apply Betacap Scalp Application once your hair has dried.

When you start to notice your condition improving, stop using Betacap Scalp Application as often; use it once a day or even less.

Continuous, long-term use of Betacap should be avoided. Do not use this product on children for longer than 7 days.

Side Effects

When you use a topical corticosteroid like Betacap Scalp Application for a limited period of time and as instructed, your skin can tolerate them quite well.

However, if you use the product excessively or over a long period of time, this can cause local skin thinning and adrenal suppression. This is particularly common in children or on skin that is wrapped up or bandaged.

These side effects will normally go away when you stop using the treatment. Speak to your doctor if these reactions do not go away.

Serious allergic reaction

If you suffer from any of the below symptoms, you must either dial 999 or go to A&E straight away:

• You have swelling in your face, throat, mouth, tongue or lips
• You are finding it difficult to speak or breathe
• You have tightness in your chest or throat
• You have a skin rash that may be red, itchy, swollen, blistered or peeling skin
• You are wheezing

You may be having a serious allergic reaction and require immediate treatment in hospital.

Please read the patient information leaflet for comprehensive information on side effects.

Warnings and drug interactions

Tell your doctor if you are currently using any prescription or non-prescription medicine, herbal remedies, vitamins or supplements as some medicines may interact with betacap scalp application.

Betacap is for external use only.

Take great care not to get the product in your eye while using Betacap; this can can cause damage. You must rinse your eyes immediately if you get this product in them.

Make sure your doctor reviews your treatment regularly, to monitor your progress and to avoid any possible complications.

Do not use this product near flames or ignition sources.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

It is not clear as to whether Betacap is safe to use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Animal birth defects have been found with similar medicines which contain corticosteroids, meaning there could be a small risk of this occurring in humans, too.

As a result, women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not use Betacap unless their doctor has specifically instructed them to.

We recommend BUMPS for additional information.

Betacap Ingredients

The main active ingredient within this medicine is: Betamethasone valerate.

For a full list of the inactive ingredients, please read the Summary of Product Characteristics.